Key Facts
• On July 9, 2025, Pope Leo XIV met with President Zelensky near Rome.
• The Pope expressed renewed willingness to mediate a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.
• Vatican is prepared to host representatives from both nations for negotiations.
• Zelensky visited Italy for the “Ukraine Recovery Conference” starting July 10.
• Both leaders emphasized the importance of dialogue to end Russia’s invasion.
Summary
Pope Leo XIV met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on July 9, 2025, near Rome, reiterating his commitment to mediate a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. The Pope conveyed the Vatican’s readiness to host representatives from both nations to facilitate negotiations. Zelensky’s visit coincided with the “Ukraine Recovery Conference” in Rome, starting July 10. Both leaders underscored the critical role of dialogue in resolving the ongoing conflict.
