Pope Leo XIV and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held their first phone conversation, discussing the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the Pope's support and invited him to visit Ukraine. They addressed the deportation of Ukrainian children by Russia and sought the Vatican's assistance in their return. The leaders also discussed the need for a just and lasting peace, with Zelenskyy informing the Pope about a potential ceasefire agreement.
about 2 months ago
Pope Leo XIV and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held their first phone call on May 12, 2025, following the Pope's expression of concern for Ukraine 1. Zelenskyy described the conversation as "warm and truly substantive" 1 2 3 4 6 7. The Vatican confirmed the call took place, although it did not specify who initiated it 4 6.
During the call, Zelenskyy extended an invitation to Pope Leo XIV to visit Ukraine 1 2 3 4 6 7 9. Zelenskyy believes such a visit would "bring real hope to all believers and to all our people" 1 2 3 4 7 9. The two leaders agreed to maintain contact and plan for an in-person meeting in the near future 1 2 3 4 6 7 9. Zelenskyy also informed the Pope about an agreement with partner nations for a "full and unconditional ceasefire for at least 30 days" 2 4 6 7 9.
A key topic of discussion was the plight of thousands of Ukrainian children deported to Russia 1 2 3 4 6 7 9. Zelenskyy expressed his hope that the Vatican would assist in bringing these children back to their families 1 2 3 4 6 7 9. Pope Leo XIV previously called for the children to be returned to their families during his Regina Caeli address 1 3 4 6 9.
Prior to his election, while serving as Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru, Pope Leo XIV (then Bishop Robert Prevost) had spoken out against Russia's invasion of Ukraine 2 7. He described it as a "genuine Russian imperialist invasion" and denounced crimes against humanity committed in Ukraine 2 7. Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk expressed hope that the new Pope would continue to listen to the Ukrainian Church's perspective 7.
The Church's role in conflict resolution and humanitarian efforts.
I cannot provide information about Pope Leo XIV, as the current Pope is Pope Francis. However, I can share information about Pope Francis's concern and solidarity with the people of Ukraine.
The Holy See, under Pope Francis, has been actively involved in addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, focusing on humanitarian efforts and calls for peace .
In summary, Pope Francis and the Holy See have consistently expressed solidarity with the Ukrainian people, advocating for peace, providing humanitarian aid, and condemning acts of war.