Pope Leo XIV, recovering from lung surgery, urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to agree to a ceasefire in the besieged city of Oleshky, Ukraine, where humanitarian aid has been severely restricted.
Pope Leo XIV made a direct appeal to Russian President Vladimir Putin from his hospital bed, advocating for a ceasefire in Oleshky, Ukraine. This city has faced dire humanitarian challenges, with food deliveries blocked since May.
During their conversation, the Holy Father expressed profound concern over the critical humanitarian crisis affecting Oleshky, located in the Kherson region. He called for an immediate ceasefire to facilitate the delivery of food and medical assistance, as well as to ensure the voluntary and safe evacuation of civilians trapped in the area. The Vatican released a statement detailing the pope’s remarks, emphasizing his commitment to promoting dialogue and peace.
The situation in Oleshky is alarming, with no humanitarian food deliveries permitted in the Russian-controlled city for several months. Residents are without electricity, gas, or running water, and the local hospital is struggling to function adequately.
Pope Leo XIV was diagnosed with lung cancer earlier this week and underwent surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. As of Friday, the 71-year-old pontiff was recovering well in the hospital. He has been able to hold Mass in a makeshift chapel within the hospital, and the Vatican shared the first images of him since his surgery, showing him standing at an altar.
Medical updates from his doctors indicate that he is showing “continued improvement.” A report signed by his personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, and Dr. Stefano Margaritora, the head of thoracic surgery at Gemelli Hospital, noted that the pope’s post-operative recovery has allowed him to resume his daily activities independently.
Pope Leo XIV is expected to deliver his traditional Angelus prayer service on Sunday, either from the hospital or the Vatican. He is also scheduled to travel to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru starting November 6, as planned.
In response to the situation in Oleshky, the Kremlin has placed the blame on Ukraine. According to the Kremlin, Putin provided the pope with a “detailed explanation” regarding what they termed the Kyiv regime’s responsibility for the humanitarian crisis in the city. Furthermore, Putin expressed support for the Vatican’s efforts to create conditions that would ensure the safety of the local population and facilitate the delivery of essential supplies.
As the world watches the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the pope’s call for peace and humanitarian relief underscores the urgent need for dialogue and resolution in the region, according to Fox News.