Zelensky tells Pope about negotiations with USA and invites him to Ukraine
Zelensky and Pope Leo. Photo: OP website
On December 9, 2025, Volodymyr Zelensky discussed the US peace plan with the Pontiff at the summer residence in Castel Gandolfo and invited Pope Leo to Ukraine, reports the OP website.
During the audience, the Head of State thanked His Holiness for his constant prayers for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people, as well as for his calls for a "just peace". According to Zelensky's press service, he briefed the Pontiff on "diplomatic efforts with the United States aimed at achieving a dignified and guaranteed peace".
The parties also discussed further efforts by the Vatican to secure the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.
"I invited the Pope to visit Ukraine. It will be a strong signal of support for our people," Zelensky wrote.
The Holy See's press service confirmed that the topic of the meeting was the war in Ukraine and diplomatic initiatives. According to Vatican News, the pontiff emphasized the need to continue dialogue and expressed the wish that the diplomatic efforts lead to a "just and lasting peace". The Vatican's press service does not report on Zelensky's invitation.
Earlier, the UOJ wrote that Pope Leo held a half-hour meeting with Zelensky.
Read also
Dumenko takes control of St. Volodymyr's Cathedral in Kyiv
Serhiy Dumenko handed clerics of St. Volodymyr's Cathedral decrees stating that they are now affiliated with the OCU.
Christian population in Syria Decreased by 80%, report says
British government analytics records a decline in the number of Christians in Syria from over 2 million to about 500,000 amid war and migration.
Monastic tonsure performed at Khust Eparchy metochion of UOC in Synevyrska Poliana
At the metochion of the Khust Eparchy of the UOC, Bishop Mark performed the tonsure of novice Olga with the monastic name Euphemia and blessed her on the monastic path.
Greek clergy oppose adoption of children by same-sex "couples"
The Orthodox clergy of Greece from the ISKE association stated that the recognition of same-sex unions and adoption calls into question the traditional understanding of family.
Memorial services to be held for 40 days at Patriarch Ilia's grave
At the Sioni Cathedral of Tbilisi, daily memorial services for the repose of the soul will be held for 40 days at the grave of Patriarch Ilia II, which is open to pilgrims.
UOC youth forum in Khmelnytskyi explores Christian marriage
Orthodox youth of the Khmelnytskyi Eparchy of the UOC gathered for prayer, Scripture study, and reflection on the mystery of Christian marriage.