Zelenskyy may meet with Pope on Sunday
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- Mariia Khamitsevych
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8:10, 14 May, 2025
Pope Leo XIV, photo: Getty ImagesUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is considering a meeting with newly elected Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, 18 May. However, he stressed that this visit would only take place if negotiations with Russia develop favourably.
He noted that it was too early to say for sure, as the events of the coming days could significantly affect the plans, Liberation writes.
The head of the President's Office, Andrii Yermak, told Reuters that Volodymyr Zelenskyy plans to attend the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, which will take place in the Vatican on 18 May. It is expected to be attended by numerous world leaders.
On Monday, the President had a telephone conversation with the Pope, during which he invited him to visit Ukraine. He stressed that the pontiff's visit would be an important signal of support for Ukrainians. According to the head of state, although it was their first conversation, it was warm and constructive.
The day before, Pope Leo XIV, in his first Sunday blessing, called for «a speedy genuine peace» in Ukraine.