Pope Leo speaks with President Zelensky by phone

Pope Leo and President Zelensky during an audience in Castel Gandolfo, July 2025

Source: Vatican Media

The Holy See Press Office has announced that Pope Leo XIV and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke over the telephone today, Monday, 19 October.

During the conversation, "the Holy Father recalled the grave situation in the city of Oleshky, in the Kherson region, and made reference to the request for a humanitarian ceasefire that he had presented to the President of the Russian Federation" the press office stated.

Pope Leo also expressed his hope that "cooperation between both parties will allow for the delivery of food and medical aid", as well as for the "voluntary and safe evacuation of the civilian population".

Finally, the Holy Father reaffirmed the Holy See's commitment to promoting dialogue and peace.

Pope Leo and President Zelensky have met in person three times since Pope Leo's election on May 8, 2025. The first met on May 18, 2025, at the Vatican, during Zelensky's attendance at Pope Leo's inaugural Mass. They next met on July 9, 2025 at the papal residence in Castel Gandolfo, where Pope Leo was spending his vacation. They also met at Castel Gandolfo, on December 9, 2025.

Pope Leo and President Zelensky have also spoken by phone on at least two occasions.