Zelenskyy Meets Pope Leo at Castel Gandolfo, Discusses Peace Efforts and Abducted Children

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Pope Leo at the papal residence of Castel Gandolfo on Tuesday, expressing his country's appreciation for the Vatican's humanitarian support during the ongoing conflict with Russia.

During the meeting, Zelenskyy briefed the pontiff on diplomatic efforts with the United States aimed at achieving peace. He also discussed the Vatican's potential role in mediating the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia, according to a statement Zelenskyy posted on X.

The Ukrainian president extended an invitation for Pope Leo to visit Ukraine. In response, the pontiff emphasized the importance of continued dialogue to reach a "just and lasting peace," the Vatican said in a statement following the meeting.

Zelenskyy's visit to Italy includes a scheduled meeting with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome later Tuesday. These diplomatic engagements come as Zelenskyy works with European allies to counter a U.S.-backed draft peace proposal with Russia that many view as favoring Moscow's interests.

The meetings reflect Ukraine's broader effort to build international support and explore alternative diplomatic pathways as negotiations over ending the conflict continue.