Breaking News: Pope Leo XIV has appealed to Vladimir Putin for a ceasefire in Oleshky, Ukraine, while recovering from lung cancer surgery.
Pope Leo XIV made a direct plea to Russian President Vladimir Putin requesting a ceasefire in the Russian-held city of Oleshky in Ukraine to allow humanitarian aid access. This call was made while recovering from lung surgery in Rome’s Gemelli hospital following diagnosis of lung cancer. According to the Vatican statement, the Pope expressed “deep concern about the grave humanitarian situation” in Oleshky, including the lack of food, water, electricity, and adequate medical facilities. He also advocated for safe evacuation of civilians.
The city of Oleshky has suffered severely under Russian control since May, lacking essential supplies and facing ongoing difficulties in receiving humanitarian aid. Moscow has accused Ukraine of being responsible for the dire situation. Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump offered Pope Leo XIV his best wishes in his recovery, praising the pontiff’s brother as well. Doctors report Pope Leo XIV’s condition continues to improve post-surgery, allowing him to conduct daily activities independently. He conducted Mass in the hospital chapel and images have been released of him in recovery. Plans for upcoming trips to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru in November remain unchanged. Putin responded to the Pope’s call by providing a “detailed explanation” regarding Ukraine’s alleged responsibility for Oleshky’s plight and expressed support for Vatican efforts to help ensure safety and deliver supplies.
This development underscores the continued international efforts to de-escalate the conflict in Ukraine. It highlights the humanitarian crisis in occupied territories and underscores the Pope’s consistent advocacy for peace. Such calls from influential figures like Pope Leo XIV add weight to efforts to negotiate a resolution. Russia’s response indicates its continued insistence on Ukraine being held accountable for the situation in Oleshky.
Pope Leo XIV is expected to deliver the Angelus prayer on Sunday. He continues to be monitored by his doctors who report “continued improvement”. Further details regarding potential negotiations or aid delivery will depend upon responses from both sides in the conflict.
Sources: Fox News, The Daily Telegraph, The Sun, Fox Business, The Jerusalem Post
