The Pope suggested that negotiations were necessary

[words]

Pope  ローマ教皇

seek a settlement  和解を求める

be quoted  引用される

things are not going well 物事が上手いかない

has the courage of the white flag 

negotiate 交渉する

criticism 批判

In response to this backlash この反発に応え

spokesman

capitulation 降伏　

capitulate  ,  surrender

face reality 現実を直視する

no longer  もはや...ない

harsh reality  過酷な現実

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I was very surprised to read this news two days ago.

The Pope was asked to comment on a debate between those who want Ukraine to seek a settlement with Russia and those don’t want that.

The Pope was quoted as saying: 

“ The strongest one is the one who looks at the situation, thinks about the people and has the courage of the white flag, and negotiates."

"When you see that you are defeated, that things are not going well, you have to have the courage to negotiate," .

There has  been strong criticism from Ukrainian people and politicians including the president,foreign minister and others.

In response to this backlash, A Vatican spokesman later said the Pope was speaking of stopping the fighting through negotiation, not capitulation.

I guess,

What is needed now , as the Vatican spokesman says, is to stop the fighting through negotiations.

Of course, all decisions must be made by Ukraine itself.

Extremely unfortunately,  if we face reality,  I don't think Ukraine can defeat Russia.

Ukraine no longer has enough weapons, soldiers, or money. 

This is the harsh reality.

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https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-68538267.amp

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-68528217

https://www.bbc.com/japanese/articles/ckrx1nd2804o

https://www.bbc.com/japanese/articles/czrzn8gerp9o.amp