Pope Leo Makes Direct Appeal to Putin From Hospital

Pope Leo XIV, currently undergoing treatment at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, personally contacted Russian President Vladimir Putin to plead for a humanitarian ceasefire in the besieged Ukrainian city of Oleshky, according to Vatican News. The pontiff highlighted the dire humanitarian conditions in the city, located on the frontlines of the Kherson region.

He called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, allowing food and medical aid to reach the residents and permitting safe evacuations, as reported by the Holy See Press Office. Leo also reiterated the Holy See's dedication to fostering dialogue and peace. This was not the first time Pope Leo had reached out to the Russian leader; their last conversation took place in June 2025.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's secretary of state, confirmed that Leo instigated this call to address the plight of the city, which currently houses around 2,000 civilians. "I hope that in response to the Holy Father’s request, President Putin will agree to do what the Pope has asked," Parolin stated. Newsweek reached out to both the Holy See and Russia's foreign ministry for comment on Saturday.

Oleshky, previously inhabited by 24,000 people, was seized by Russian forces on the first day of Ukraine's full-scale invasion in February 2022. The city has suffered from a severe shortage of food, medical supplies, electricity, heating, and running water for months. Roads leading out are mined, and both sides have accused each other of responsibility for the crisis, although Russia, as the occupying power, is legally obligated to ensure civilians receive essential supplies, as per an Associated Press report.

Pope Leo has been in the hospital since Tuesday following surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. His doctors, Dr. Luigi Carbone and Professor Stefano Margaritora, reported steady improvement in his condition, with ongoing respiratory physiotherapy and the ability to perform daily activities independently. The 71-year-old pope also conducted Mass in his hospital room and administered Communion to fellow patients.

Leo was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most prevalent form of lung cancer, during his recent surgery, a condition he had been living with since early 2025, following his appointment as the first American pope.