Pope Leo XIV and President Volodymyr Zelensky discuss the war in Ukraine, the return of forcibly deported Ukrainian children, and the Holy See’s continued support for dialogue and peace.
Newsroom (10 July 2025, Gaudium Press ) On Tuesday, Pope Leo XIV welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for a private audience at the papal residence in Castel Gandolfo, with the ongoing war in Ukraine taking center stage. The meeting, described as cordial yet urgent, focused on pathways to peace and the humanitarian toll of the conflict.
According to the Holy See Press Office, the discussion emphasized the need to end hostilities and secure a just, lasting resolution to the war. Pope Leo XIV expressed profound sorrow for the victims and reaffirmed his spiritual solidarity with the Ukrainian people, assuring them of his prayers. He underscored the Vatican’s readiness to facilitate dialogue, offering to host representatives from Ukraine and Russia for potential negotiations.
The pontiff also highlighted the urgent need to address humanitarian concerns, including the release of prisoners and the reunification of Ukrainian children separated from their families during the conflict. The Vatican’s statement reiterated its commitment to supporting diplomatic efforts to alleviate suffering and restore stability.
Speaking briefly to journalists in English after the meeting, President Zelensky expressed gratitude for the Pope’s hospitality and support. “I’m very happy for His Holiness—for this meeting, for hosting us,” he said. He emphasized the plight of Ukrainian children forcibly taken to Russia, calling it a “very important question” discussed during the talks. “We spoke about it,” Zelensky added, stressing the priority of reuniting these children with their families.
Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s desire for peace, stating, “Of course we want peace, we want the war to be finished.” He expressed hope that the Vatican, with its moral authority, could play a pivotal role in facilitating high-level talks to end the conflict. “We very much count on the Vatican and His Holiness to help provide a place for a high-level meeting of leaders,” he said.
The meeting marks another chapter in the Vatican’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to mediate in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, reflecting Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to fostering dialogue amid one of Europe’s most pressing crises.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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