Pope Leo Urges Oleshky Truce in Putin Call

On Oct. 17, 2026, Pope Leo XIV phoned Vladimir Putin from hospital and urged a ceasefire in Oleshky, in Ukraine’s Kherson region, so food and medical aid could reach civilians and residents could evacuate safely and voluntarily. The Vatican said Leo expressed deep concern about the grave humanitarian situation and reaffirmed the Holy See’s commitment to dialogue and peace. Oleshky has had no humanitarian food deliveries since May and lacks electricity, gas and running water; its hospital is barely functional. Leo, 71, was diagnosed with lung cancer and had the lower lobe of his right lung removed; pathology confirmed adenocarcinoma. A medical update signed by Luigi Carbone and Stefano Margaritora said he can carry out normal daily activities completely on his own. The Vatican released first post-surgery photos of him at the altar in green vestments and said he celebrated Mass in a makeshift Gemelli Hospital chapel, distributing Communion to medical staff and Vatican gendarmes. The Kremlin said Putin gave a detailed explanation regarding the Kyiv regime’s responsibility for the difficult humanitarian situation there, wished Leo good health and a quick recovery, and supported the Vatican’s intention to help ensure the safety of the local population and delivery of essential supplies. Cardinal Pietro Parolin said plans may adjust on the basis of Leo’s health conditions, at least for the Nov. 6-17 trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru. Sunday’s Angelus location remained undetermined.