Zelensky Invites Pope to Ukraine, Confirms 30-Day Ceasefire

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has disclosed details of his first-ever conversation with Pope Leo XIV, describing it as a “very warm and truly substantive” call centered on peace, the fate of Ukrainian children, and the path to ending the war with Russia.

“I thanked His Holiness for his support of Ukraine and all our people,” Zelensky said in a statement Monday.

“We deeply value his words about the need to achieve a just and lasting peace for our country and the release of prisoners.”

One of the key issues raised was the deportation of Ukrainian children by Russian forces.

“We discussed the thousands of Ukrainian children deported by Russia,” he said, adding that Ukraine counts on the Vatican’s assistance “in bringing them home to their families.”

Zelensky also informed the Pope about a new ceasefire agreement: “Starting today, a full and unconditional ceasefire for at least 30 days must begin.”

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He emphasized Ukraine’s ongoing commitment to peace talks. “I reaffirmed Ukraine’s readiness for further negotiations in any format, including direct talks — a position we have repeatedly emphasised.”

The Ukrainian leader said he had extended an invitation for an apostolic visit to Ukraine. “Such a visit would bring real hope to all believers and to all our people,” he said.

Zelensky concluded by saying they “agreed to stay in contact and plan an in-person meeting in the near future.”