Pope on Zelensky's invitation to visit Ukraine: We must be realistic

Pontiff and Zelensky. Photo: Vatican News

On December 9, 2025, Pope Leo commented at a briefing for journalists on the invitation from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to visit Ukraine, reports vaticannews.va.

“I hope so, though I don’t know when. One must also be realistic in these matters; perhaps it will be possible.,” the Pontiff stated at his residence in Castel Gandolfo near Rome.

Commenting on the outcomes of the meeting with Zelensky, the Pope said that the main topics of discussion were the war, the ceasefire, and the Church's possibilities in assisting the return of Ukrainian children deported to Russia. According to the Pontiff, this work is being done "behind the scenes" and "is very slow"

Pope Leo XIV confirmed that “the Holy See is available to provide space and opportunities for talks and negotiations,” adding that “So far, the offer has not been accepted, but we remain willing to seek a solution and a peace that is both lasting and just.”

Earlier, the UOJ wrote that Zelensky told the Pope about negotiations with the USA and invited him to Ukraine.

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