The Holy See is studying the conditions for a possible visit by Leo XIV to Ukraine, following repeated invitations extended by the country’s authorities. This was confirmed by the Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, at the conclusion of his recent pastoral and diplomatic mission in Ukrainian territory.
Gallagher explained to Vatican media on July 22 that virtually everyone he met asked when the Pontiff would travel to the country. “The Holy Father takes this invitation very seriously,” he stated, before noting that the Holy See will analyze the circumstances to determine “the most favorable timing and methods for Ukraine and for world peace.”
The prelate did not specify a date and emphasized that any eventual visit must take place “at the most opportune moment and in the most fruitful way possible.”
Gallagher’s Mission in Ukraine
The Vatican secretary spent six days in Ukraine, where he held meetings with political and ecclesial authorities, visited areas affected by bombings, and participated in celebrations at the Marian shrine of Berdychiv.
During his stay, he met in Kyiv with President Volodymyr Zelensky, who expressed gratitude for the Holy See’s support amid the war with Russia. Gallagher stated that Ukrainian authorities conveyed their appreciation for Leo XIV’s appeals and for the continuity of diplomatic and humanitarian initiatives promoted by the Vatican.
The archbishop also noted that the Holy See intends to maintain dialogue with the international community and with Russian authorities, while continuing to work on issues such as the return of Ukrainian children transferred to Russia, the exchange of prisoners, and assistance to civilians affected by the conflict.
Ukraine Reiterates the Invitation
Following Gallagher’s statements, Ukraine’s ambassador to the Holy See, Andrii Yurash, reiterated Kyiv’s interest in receiving the Pontiff. In an interview granted on July 30 to EWTN News, he assured that a possible visit could contribute to international efforts to end the war.
“We are absolutely certain that his possible visit would be a major contribution to the process of achieving peace,” the diplomat declared, adding that the presence of Leo XIV in Ukrainian territory, with “a message of peace” and “a message of justice,” would be particularly relevant in the current context.
Yurash stated that expectations among the population are high and described the Pope as “the most desired foreign representative in Ukraine.” According to him, Ukrainians want to receive him and “hear his messages expressed directly on Ukrainian soil.”
Invitations to Leo XIV
Ukraine has extended several official invitations to the Pontiff since the beginning of his pontificate. According to the ambassador, these have been conveyed at various levels since the first meeting between Leo XIV and Zelensky.
The most recent invitation was issued by the Ukrainian president during a conversation held on Good Friday. On that occasion, the Pope expressed his closeness to those suffering because of the war, stressed the need to ensure humanitarian assistance, and voiced his desire for hostilities to cease and for a just and lasting peace to be achieved.
Yurash expressed confidence that Leo XIV is seriously considering the trip and seeking “a truly appropriate moment” to carry it out.
The Holy See’s Humanitarian Efforts
Gallagher’s mission was preceded by a new visit to Ukraine by Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, the Pope’s special envoy, who spent four days in Lviv and Kyiv to address the exchange of prisoners, the return of children transferred to Russia, and the delivery of humanitarian aid.
The ambassador interpreted both missions as evidence of the Holy See’s interest in the country’s situation and in efforts aimed at reaching a resolution to the conflict. He also highlighted the moral and spiritual support that, in his view, the Vatican continues to offer to the Ukrainian population.
“The Holy See demonstrates that Ukraine is not alone and that it is trying to do everything possible to spiritually support the Ukrainian people, give them hope, and inspire them to remain strong,” Yurash affirmed.