KYIV, Ukraine (CHATNEWSTV) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke Monday with newly elected Pope Leo XIV in what was the pontiff’s first call with a foreign leader, focusing on peace efforts and the humanitarian fallout from Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Zelenskyy congratulated the pope on his recent election to the papacy and thanked him for his public support of Ukraine during his first Sunday blessing in St. Peter’s Square.
“I am grateful for your words about the need for a just, true, and lasting peace for Ukraine,” Zelenskyy told the pontiff, according to a readout from the president’s office.
The Ukrainian leader highlighted the plight of thousands of children forcibly deported to Russia, calling on the Vatican to aid in their return. In response, Pope Leo XIV reportedly assured continued Vatican efforts on humanitarian issues, particularly regarding displaced and imprisoned civilians.
The two leaders spoke in detail about a new ceasefire agreement reached with Ukraine’s international partners. Zelenskyy said the deal requires a full and unconditional 30-day halt to hostilities beginning Monday.
“Ukraine is ready for further negotiations in any format, including direct talks,” Zelenskyy said, reiterating Kyiv’s position that it wants to end the war but awaits “corresponding steps from Russia.”
Zelenskyy extended a formal invitation for the pope to visit Ukraine, saying such a visit “could bring real hope to the Ukrainian people.”
According to the Ukrainian presidency, both sides agreed to stay in contact and prepare for an in-person meeting.
The Vatican has not yet released its own statement on the call.
