Castel Gandolfo: Pope Leo XIV met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday morning at the papal residence in Castel Gandolfo to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine and humanitarian concerns linked to the conflict.
According to a statement from the Holy See Press Office, the meeting was warm and respectful, with both leaders focusing mainly on the war and its impact on civilians. Pope Leo repeated his call for continued dialogue and expressed his strong hope that diplomatic efforts would lead to a just and lasting peace.
A major point of discussion was the situation of Ukrainian prisoners of war and the urgent need to ensure the safe return of Ukrainian children taken to Russia. Both sides agreed that this remains one of the most painful and pressing humanitarian issues.
This visit comes five months after President Zelenskyy’s previous audience with Pope at the same location. During that July meeting, Pope Leo, who had been elected only two months earlier, shared his sorrow for the victims of the conflict and promised ongoing prayers for Ukraine. At the time, he also repeated the Vatican’s readiness to host potential negotiations between Ukraine and Russia if both sides agreed.
After the meeting on Monday, President Zelenskyy spoke briefly with reporters, describing the discussion as meaningful and expressing gratitude for the Pope’s support. He said the issue of returning displaced Ukrainian children was especially important and thanked Pope for keeping it at the center of international dialogue.
The Vatican did not provide further details on next steps but emphasized Pope’s continued commitment to peace and humanitarian relief.