Pope Leo lands in Lima for Peru homecoming

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Peru on Wednesday, returning to the land where he served as a missionary for two decades prior to leading the world's 1.4 billion Catholics. The 71-year-old pontiff touched down in Lima, concluding a demanding 12-day Latin American journey, only weeks after undergoing surgery for lung cancer.

Locals hailed the visit, with street vendor Alexander Torres expressing delight at the expected warm welcome. "He will be welcomed as if he never left the country," Torres said enthusiastically.

Some faithful lined the streets, lining up dozens deep as soldiers guarded the route, ready to welcome Pope Leo, who was said to be "Peruvian" by many. The Pope began his day in Lujan, Argentina, where he presided over a mass attended by over three million people, a mix of farewell and homage to his late Argentine predecessor, Pope Francis. "Thank you, Argentina, for welcoming me with open arms," the Pope declared, addressing the largest crowd of his 18-month papacy.

The faithful climbed fences and barriers to catch a glimpse of their spiritual guide, an experience that Daiana Rivero, 36, described as "unique and unforgettable." The Pope's visit to Peru is expected to leave a powerful emotional impact, with the nation divided by its violent past, high crime rates, deep inequalities, and a rising cost of living. Pope Leo XIV's trip will take him from the Amazon to the high Andes, including an emotional return to Chiclayo, the city where he served as bishop for a decade.