Pope Leo XIV Meets Zelenskyy at Castel Gandolfo, Discusses Ukraine Peace

Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, has been widely recognized for his missionary background and global experience, with leaders like Monsignor Gregory Smith highlighting his universal approach and deep roots in South America. Currently on a summer retreat at Castel Gandolfo, the Pope is focusing on writing his first encyclical, which is expected to address themes such as peace, social doctrine, unity, and artificial intelligence, while limiting public engagements to Sunday Mass and Angelus prayers. During this retreat, Pope Leo met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, emphasizing the need for dialogue and peace, and offering the Vatican as a potential venue for negotiations, although Russia has expressed reservations about this. Monsignor Hilary Franco, a veteran church figure who has known seven popes, recently had a private audience with Pope Leo XIV where they discussed Franco's memoir about previous pontiffs, with the Pope expressing keen interest. These developments illustrate Pope Leo's commitment to peace, global unity, and continuity within the Church as he prepares for a busy upcoming season including Jubilee preparations and new appointments.