Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy invited Pope Leo XIV to make an apostolic visit to Ukraine during their first phone conversation. This marked the new pontiff’s initial diplomatic engagement, and Zelenskyy described the call as “very warm and truly substantive.” He emphasized that a papal visit would offer real hope to all believers and to the Ukrainian people.
During the discussion, the two leaders addressed humanitarian concerns, particularly the forced deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia amid the ongoing conflict. Pope Leo XIV expressed his support for Ukraine and advocated for a 30-day ceasefire, signaling a more proactive and assertive stance compared to his predecessor, Pope Francis.
In his first address to the media, Pope Leo XIV also called for the release of imprisoned journalists and urged for truthful and responsible communication, underlining the importance of press freedom. His inauguration mass is scheduled for May 18, 2025, with his first papal audience set for May 21. While there has been no official confirmation of a papal visit to Ukraine, the early engagement suggests a strong interest in addressing international conflict and humanitarian issues.
