On Wednesday, June 4, 2025, Pope Leo XIV held a telephone conversation with President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin. The Holy See’s spokesperson reported that the call took place in the afternoon and focused on several issues, with special attention given to the war in Ukraine, reports the Baltimore Chronicle citing Vatican News.
During the conversation, the Pope urged the Russian side to take a humanitarian step that could help promote peace. He also emphasized the importance of supporting dialogue as a means to establish constructive communication and to find pathways to resolve the conflict.
The two parties also addressed the humanitarian situation in areas affected by military actions. The need for assistance to civilians and ongoing efforts related to prisoner exchanges were among the topics discussed. The Pope underlined the value of Cardinal Matteo Zuppi’s mediation mission, which continues to operate in this field.
The Pontiff also expressed his gratitude for the greetings he received from Patriarch Kirill on the occasion of the beginning of his pontificate. He noted that shared Christian values could serve as a guiding light in the search for peace, the protection of human life, and the pursuit of genuine religious freedom.
The conversation between the head of the Catholic Church and the Russian president is part of the Vatican’s broader diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting the end of the military conflict and reinforcing the humanitarian dimension in international relations.
Earlier we wrote that Leo XIV holds first mass after election.