Pope Leo XIV held a telephone conversation this Friday with Russian President Vladimir Putin, in which he conveyed his "deep concern for the serious humanitarian situation" in the Ukrainian locality of Oleshki, located in the Kherson province, and urged him to declare a ceasefire that facilitates access to aid.
As indicated by the Press Office of the Holy See in a statement released this Friday, during the call "the Holy Father expressed his deep concern for the serious humanitarian situation in the city of Oleshki, in the Kherson region, and called for a ceasefire that allows the delivery of food and medical assistance, as well as the voluntary and safe evacuation of the civilian population."
During the exchange with the Russian leader, Leo XIV also "reaffirmed the Holy See's commitment to promoting dialogue and peace," according to the official note released by the Vatican.
From the Kremlin, on their part, they have indicated that Putin offered the Pontiff "comprehensive explanations about the responsibility of the Kiev regime in the difficult humanitarian situation that has arisen" in Oleshki.
The Russian statement adds that "the Vatican's intention to contribute to the creation of conditions that guarantee the safety of the city's population and the organization of vital supplies has been supported. Collaboration in this regard has been agreed upon," also emphasizing the "constructive and mutually respectful atmosphere" in which the conversation took place.
During the call, Putin wished the Pope a speedy recovery and thanked him for "his willingness to contribute to the resolution of the conflict" in Ukraine, also underscoring the relevance of cooperation between Moscow and the Holy See to "promote the values that unite us and protect Christians" around the globe.
The telephone contact took place three days after the Pontiff underwent surgery for a malignant tumor in the lung. At this time, Robert Prevost remains hospitalized at the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome to complete his recovery, with a favorable evolution according to the latest medical report.