Pope Leo XIV held his first phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on June 4th, 2025. The Pope urged Putin to make a gesture for peace in Ukraine and emphasized the importance of dialogue. Discussions included the humanitarian situation, aid facilitation, and prisoner exchanges. The Pope also thanked Patriarch Kirill and highlighted shared Christian values in promoting peace. This call marks a significant interaction amidst ongoing international tensions and the conflict in Ukraine.
12 days ago
Pope Leo XIV and Russian President Vladimir Putin held their first phone conversation on Wednesday, June 4, 2025 1 3 4. The call occurred amidst escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, despite ongoing international efforts to establish a ceasefire 1.
During the conversation, Pope Leo XIV appealed to Russia to "make a gesture that would promote peace" in Ukraine 1 3 4 5 9 11. The Pope emphasized the importance of dialogue in establishing positive contact between the involved parties to seek solutions to the ongoing conflict 1 3 4 5 9 11.
The humanitarian situation in Ukraine was a key point of discussion 1 3 4 5 9 11. Pope Leo XIV stressed the need to provide aid to affected areas 1 4 5 9 11. The leaders also addressed ongoing negotiations for prisoner exchanges and the efforts of Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, who served as Pope Francis’s personal peace envoy to Ukraine 1 3 4 5 9.
The Vatican emphasized shared Christian values as a guiding light for seeking peace, defending life, and pursuing religious freedom 1 3 4 5 8 9 10 11. The Kremlin, however, stated that Putin accused the "Kyiv regime" of escalating the conflict and carrying out sabotage 4 5 8 9 10. Putin expressed gratitude for the Vatican's willingness to help resolve humanitarian issues 4 5 9.
The phone call took place on the same day that U.S. President Donald Trump also spoke with Vladimir Putin 1 2 12. Pope Leo XIV had previously spoken with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shortly after his election 1 4 5 9. The Pope had also offered the Vatican as a neutral site for peace talks, but this offer was declined by Russia 8 10 12.
The Church's role in promoting peace and dialogue.
The Catholic Church plays a multifaceted role in promoting peace and dialogue, grounded in its mission to continue Christ's work of redemption . This involves fostering unity, justice, and reconciliation among individuals and nations .
In summary, the Church promotes peace and dialogue through its teachings, actions, and advocacy, aiming to foster a world where justice, love, and reconciliation prevail.