By Peter Omopo
Pope Leo XIV is set to hold his first private audience with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday, shortly after the solemn inauguration mass marking the beginning of his papacy, the Vatican has announced.
Addressing global leaders and dignitaries at St. Peter’s Square in Rome, the Pope renewed his call for peace in Ukraine, stating, “The martyred Ukraine is waiting for negotiations for a just and lasting peace to finally happen.”
Zelenskyy was among several world leaders—including royalty and faith figures—who attended the historic mass. The Ukrainian president was also seen exchanging greetings with U.S. Vice President JD Vance on the sidelines of the ceremony.
The meeting between Pope Leo XIV and President Zelenskyy is expected to focus on humanitarian efforts and the Vatican’s ongoing push for dialogue to end the prolonged war in Ukraine.
