On July 9, 2025, Pope Leo XIV received Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a private audience at the papal residence in Castel Gandolfo. The meeting marked a significant moment in the Holy See’s ongoing efforts to promote peace and humanitarian support amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
According to the official communiqué from the Holy See Press Office, the conversation was cordial and centered on “the ongoing conflict and the urgent need for a just and lasting peace.” Pope Leo reaffirmed the importance of dialogue as the primary path toward ending hostilities and emphasized his continued sorrow for the many victims of the war. He also expressed his closeness to the Ukrainian people, offering both prayers and concrete encouragement for efforts toward prisoner release and negotiated solutions.
Importantly, the Holy Father reiterated the Vatican’s openness to hosting negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, stating that representatives from both sides would be welcome to meet at the Vatican in pursuit of peace.
President Zelenskyy echoed this openness in a tweet following the meeting, describing the encounter as “a very substantive conversation with @Pontifex.” He expressed gratitude for the Pope’s support and prayers, and confirmed that the invitation for peace talks at the Vatican remains available.
“We will continue to strengthen global solidarity so that diplomacy can still succeed,” Zelenskyy wrote, underscoring Ukraine’s commitment to peace through international cooperation.
The president also thanked Pope Leo for his personal concern for Ukrainian children, especially those who were abducted during the war and have since been returned from Russian custody. Zelenskyy noted that many children are now receiving care and rest in Italy, thanks to arrangements made in part by the Vatican and Italian organizations such as Caritas Italiana.
Another significant topic raised during the conversation was the historical legacy of Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky. Zelenskyy praised Sheptytsky’s courage during the Second World War, particularly his efforts to save Jews and his steadfast defense of the Christian faith. He expressed hope that the Catholic Church will give due recognition to Sheptytsky’s moral and spiritual leadership.
The Ukrainian president concluded by extending a formal invitation to Pope Leo XIV to visit Ukraine, a gesture that could carry profound weight for a nation still enduring the ravages of war.
As the Vatican continues to work quietly behind the scenes for reconciliation and justice, this meeting reinforces Pope Leo XIV’s role as a pastor of peace, one deeply committed to the dignity of every person and the power of dialogue, even amid suffering.