VATICAN CITY, October 16. /TASS/. Pope Leo XIV held a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which they discussed the humanitarian situation in the Kherson Region, the Holy See Press Office said.
"Pope Leo XIV held a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. During the conversation, the Holy Father expressed deep concern over the serious humanitarian situation in the city of Alyoshki in the Kherson Region and called for a ceasefire to ensure the delivery of food and medicine, as well as the voluntary and safe evacuation of civilians. In conclusion, the Holy Father reaffirmed the Holy See’s commitment to dialogue and peace," the press office said in a statement.
The 71-year-old pontiff is in hospital following lung surgery. This was Leo XIV’s second telephone conversation with the Russian leader since he was elected Pope a year and a half ago.