Pope Leo speaks on phone with Zelenskyy, reiterates concern for Russian-occupied Ukrainian city facing humanitarian crisis

Pope Leo XIV spoke by telephone with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy Oct. 19, highlighting his concern for the grave situation in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshky.

Recent reports state that Oleshky reportedly has no stable power, water, or heating, and the main route out of the city is laced with landmines, according to Zeale News. Access to food is also heavily limited. 

The conversation comes as Pope Leo continues recovering from lung surgery he underwent last week. While he was still in the hospital Oct. 16, Pope Leo spoke by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressing concern for Oleshky and urging a ceasefire to allow for humanitarian aid to be delivered to the city and for a safe and voluntary evacuation. 

The Holy See Press Office said Oct. 19 that during his conversation with Zelenskyy, Pope Leo “made reference to the request for a humanitarian ceasefire that he had presented to the President of the Russian Federation.”

“His Holiness expressed the hope that cooperation between both parties will allow for the delivery of food and medical aid, and for the voluntary and safe evacuation of the civilian population,” the office added. “Finally, the Holy Father reaffirmed the commitment of the Holy See to promoting dialogue and peace.”

According to the Financial, Ukraine’s human rights commissioner, Dmytro Lubinets, said Oct. 19 that evacuation talks are moving toward agreement, as Russia had taken Ukraine’s proposals into consideration. According to Reuters, the Kremlin said after Pope Leo’s call that Putin “supported the Vatican’s intention to help civilians and that cooperation had been agreed,” The Financial reported. The Kremlin’s statement did not mention a ceasefire, and both sides have accused the other of blocking deliveries.

According to the Financial, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin said Pope Leo had initiated the call to Putin on behalf of Oleshky.

Zelenskyy said in an Oct. 19 statement that during the conversation he wished the Pontiff a full and quick recovery from the surgery. 

“We are grateful that even during this difficult time for him personally, His Holiness remembers Ukraine and prays for our people,” the Ukrainian president added.

Zelenskyy said he also gave Pope Leo detailed updates on Russian strikes, which he described as constant, on Ukrainian cities and communities. 

The two also discussed the humanitarian catastrophe in Oleshky, Zelenskyy said, adding that Ukraine is working to help the citizens and is “preparing decisions.”

“His Holiness informed me about contacts with the Russian side on this matter. Of course, we also discussed all the current security challenges and threats, including the periodic lack of warnings from our partners about Russian ballistic missile attacks – something that has happened three times recently,” Zelenskyy concluded. “I thank His Holiness for his support and all his efforts to achieve a dignified peace.”