Pope Leo XIV urges Russia to make “gesture” toward peace in first-ever call with Putin

The Russian state propaganda agency TASS first reported the conversation between Putin and the Pope, and the Vatican later confirmed it.

The Vatican press service stated that the conversation took place on the afternoon of Wednesday, June 4. In addition to matters of mutual interest, particular attention was given to the situation in Ukraine and the topic of peace.

"The Pope made an appeal for Russia to take a gesture that would favor peace, emphasizing the importance of dialogue to create positive contacts between the parties and seek solutions to the conflict. They discussed the humanitarian situation, the need to support aid where it is needed, and ongoing efforts to exchange prisoners," the press service clarified.

"The Holy Father also expressed gratitude for the greetings from Patriarch Kirill on the occasion of the start of his pontificate, and stressed that shared Christian values can serve as a guiding light in the search for peace, the protection of life, and the pursuit of true religious freedom," the statement added.

According to TASS, the Kremlin leader complained to Pope Leo XIV about the alleged “escalation of the conflict by the Kyiv regime” and thanked the Pontiff for his “willingness to assist in resolving the conflict with Ukraine.”

In addition, Putin reaffirmed his interest in achieving peace through political and diplomatic means and expressed hope that “the Holy See would play a more active role in promoting freedom of religion in Ukraine.”

TASS also reported that the Russian leader informed Pope Leo XIV about agreements reached in Istanbul regarding the exchange of prisoners and the bodies of the deceased.

• On May 11, during his first Sunday prayer, Pope Leo XIV expressed solidarity with Ukraine, calling for a swift, just peace and the return of children to their families.
• On May 28, at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV renewed his call to end the war in Ukraine. The statement came at the conclusion of his general audience.