Members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See were treated to a special screening of the Oscar-winning film “20 Days in Mariupol” by Mstyslav Chernov on 29 May 2024. Hosted by the UK and Ukrainian Embassies to the Holy See, the event was a poignant reminder of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The exclusive screening took place at the Synod Hall in the Vatican and was attended by diplomats, representatives, and collaborators from various departments of the Roman Curia. The documentary, narrated by war correspondent Mstyslav Chernov, chronicles the first three weeks of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, focusing on the siege of Mariupol.
Bishop Pavlo Honcharuk, Ordinary of the Diocese of Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia in Ukraine, set the tone for the event by emphasizing the importance of courage and truth. The film highlights the experiences of Chernov during the early days of the conflict and sheds light on the ongoing struggles faced by civilians, particularly in cities like Mariupol and Kharkiv.
The screening left a profound impact on the audience, serving as a stark reminder of the human cost of war. The images and stories presented in the film resonated deeply with the diplomats and other attendees, prompting reflection on the need for solidarity and support for those affected by the conflict.
Screening of the documentary in the Vatican
