- 12 May, 2025
Vatican City, May 12, 2025: Pope Leo XIV and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a phone conversation on Monday, May 12, according to the Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni. During the call, the pontiff and President Zelensky discussed several issues, including prisoner release, child repatriation, and renewed hopes for a diplomatic resolution to the Russo-Ukrainian war. The conversation came a day after Pope Leo XIV’s Sunday Regina Caeli address at St. Peter’s Basilica, during which he expressed deep concern for Ukraine’s ongoing suffering.
Following the conversation with the Pope, President Zelensky posted on X about his first conversation with Pope Leo XIV, saying he thanked the Pope for his support of Ukraine. He also stated that he welcomes the Pontiff’s call for peace and justice. He highlighted Ukraine’s deep appreciation for the Vatican’s moral leadership and expressed hope that the Holy See could play a role in helping facilitate the return of thousands of Ukrainian children allegedly deported by Russia.
President Zelensky also mentioned that he had briefed the Pope on a newly established agreement between Ukraine and its international partners to implement a 30-day unconditional ceasefire, effective immediately. He added that he reaffirmed "Ukraine’s readiness for further negotiations in any format, including direct talks."
During the phone call, President Zelensky extended an invitation to Pope Leo XIV to visit Ukraine, suggesting that an Apostolic Journey would offer profound encouragement to both the faithful and the broader Ukrainian population. The two leaders also agreed to maintain ongoing communication and are planning a face-to-face meeting soon.
The Vatican has not yet confirmed details of a potential papal visit, but the phone call marks a significant step forward in the Church’s active engagement with global efforts toward peace in Eastern Europe.
Courtesy: Vatican News
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