Pope Leo XIV and Zelenskyy discuss peace, POWs, and abducted Ukrainian children

The Vatican said that in their “sincere conversation” the Pope stressed the importance of continuing dialogue and once again expressed hope that the diplomatic efforts will help achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.

The pontiff also raised the issue of prisoners of war and emphasized the need to return Ukrainian children to their families.

On Dec. 3, the Pope said that Italy could act as a mediator in talks on ending Russia’s war against Ukraine. According to the pontiff, Europe’s presence in negotiations on ending the war in Ukraine is important. He added that the Holy See can encourage mediation in search of a solution that will ensure a just peace for Ukraine.

On Dec. 9, Zelenskyy arrived in Rome on a working visit, presidential press secretary Serhii Nykyforov said. He noted that the Ukrainian president has scheduled meetings with Pope Leo XIV and Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

On Dec. 8, Zelenskyy met with Mark Rutte, António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen to brief them on the progress of talks with the United States. The president informed the leaders about the situation on the diplomatic track. According to him, they discussed in detail work with the U.S. partners on steps toward peace, security guarantees and strengthening resilience.

Before that, Zelenskyy, as well as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, discussed the U.S.-backed peace plan.