Zelensky assures Pope Leo of his readiness for direct talks with Russia
Volodymyr Zelensky wants to end the war. Photo: AP
On May 12, 2025, Volodymyr Zelensky reported on his official Telegram channel that he had held a phone conversation with the new Pope, Leo XIV. According to him, the conversation was "very warm and truly substantive."
Zelensky "informed" the Pope about Ukraine's agreement with its partners that "starting today, a complete, unconditional ceasefire should begin for at least 30 days."
He also "confirmed his readiness for further negotiations in any format, including direct talks."
He assured that "Ukraine wants to end this war and is doing everything for it. We expect corresponding steps from Russia."
Additionally, Zelensky invited Pope Leo to "make an apostolic visit to Ukraine."
"Such a visit would bring real hope to all believers, to all our people," Zelensky underscored, adding that there was an agreement for a "personal meeting in the near future."
Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Presidential Office ruled out the Vatican's involvement in mediation with Russia due to Pope Francis's pro-Russian stance.
Read also
Khmelnytskyi Eparchy sends medical aid to Sviatohirsk Lavra
Parishioners of a cathedral in Khmelnytskyi raised 30,000 hryvnias to help the Sviatohirsk monastery.
Hasidic pilgrims taken to Uman in Ukrainian military buses – social media
Hasidic pilgrims are being picked up at the Vinnytsia bus station in Ukrainian Armed Forces minibuses.
DESS finds signs of ROC affiliation in UOC Boryspil Eparchy
Yelensky's State Service established signs of connection between the administration of the Boryspil Eparchy of the UOC and the ROC through the Kyiv Metropolis.
About 1,000 more believers file applications to defend Kyiv Metropolis
UOC lawyer Nikita Chekman called on believers to offer fervent prayers in connection with the upcoming hearing in the case of the Kyiv Metropolis.
Greek priest supports Sviatohirsk Lavra brotherhood
A Greek priest called the killing of a monk of the Sviatohirsk Lavra a common tragedy for Orthodox Christians.
Radicals decide to contribute to case against Kyiv Metropolis
A radical called on concerned citizens to show their position in the court case against the Kyiv Metropolis.