Pope Leo XIV and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held their first phone call, marking a significant interaction amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the Pope's support and discussed the situation of Ukrainian children deported by Russia. The leaders also discussed the possibility of a visit to Ukraine by the Pope. The phone call followed the Pope's expression of concern for Ukraine and his plea for peace. Both leaders agreed to stay in contact.
5 days ago
Pope Leo XIV and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held their first phone call on May 12, 2025, following the Pope's public plea for peace in Ukraine 1. The Vatican confirmed the call, which occurred shortly after Pope Leo XIV's election and expression of concern for the Ukrainian people 1 3. Zelenskyy characterized the conversation as "warm and truly substantive" 1 2.
During the call, Zelenskyy thanked Pope Leo XIV for his support and discussed the plight of thousands of Ukrainian children deported by Russia 1 3. Zelenskyy specifically requested the Vatican's assistance in bringing these children back to their families 1. The leaders also discussed the broader conflict, with Zelenskyy emphasizing the need for a just and lasting peace 2 4.
Zelenskyy extended an invitation to Pope Leo XIV to visit Ukraine 1 3. He stated that such a visit would "bring real hope to all believers and to all our people" 1. Zelenskyy and Pope Leo XIV agreed to maintain contact and plan for an in-person meeting in the near future 1 4.
Pope Leo XIV reiterated his call for an "authentic, just, and lasting peace" in Ukraine during his Sunday address 1 2. Zelenskyy informed the Pope about an agreement with Western nations for a "full and unconditional ceasefire for at least 30 days" starting May 12 2 4. He also reaffirmed Ukraine's willingness to engage in negotiations with Russia, including direct talks 2.
Prior to his election, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost (now Pope Leo XIV) strongly condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine 2. Pope Francis had previously considered visiting Ukraine following the invasion in 2022, but faced challenges regarding safety and appropriateness 2. Pope Francis was also criticized for seemingly equating Russia and Ukraine in some of his statements 2.
While I do not have access to information about a Pope Leo XIV, I can share information about the Catholic Church's stance on the war in Ukraine.
The Holy See has expressed grave concern regarding the war in Ukraine and has consistently called for peace .
Here's a summary of the Church's position: