Putin's Message to the Pope

Russian President Vladimir Putin had a phone conversation with Pope Leo XIV, as reported by the Kremlin's press service. According to the announcement, Putin once again congratulated the Pope on his election and wished him success in carrying out such a high mission.

“Both sides noted Pope Francis’ significant personal contribution to strengthening relations between Russia and the Holy See. Agreement was reached to continue efforts aimed at further developing these ties based on unifying spiritual and moral values for the benefit of building a more just world order. A mutual desire was expressed to deepen cooperation in the cultural and humanitarian fields, as well as in various regions of the world, particularly in the Middle East, in the protection of Christians and Christian holy sites.

At the request of Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia, Vladimir Putin conveyed his wishes for success in pastoral service to Pope Leo XIV. The Pope spoke in favor of the continued important dialogue between the two sister churches.

During the exchange of views regarding the situation in Ukraine, Vladimir Putin reaffirmed his interest in achieving peace through political and diplomatic means, emphasizing that for a final, just, and comprehensive resolution of the crisis, it is necessary to eliminate its root causes.

In the context of the resumption of direct Russian-Ukrainian negotiations in Istanbul, the Russian president reported on specific agreements reached during the second phase of the exchange of prisoners of war and the bodies of the deceased. It was emphasized that the Russian side is taking all possible measures to reunite children with their families.

Putin expressed gratitude to the Pope for his willingness to contribute to crisis resolution, particularly for the Vatican’s participation in addressing urgent humanitarian issues on a non-political basis.

Vladimir Putin specifically drew attention to the fact that the Kyiv regime is betting on escalating the conflict and is conducting diversions against civil infrastructure facilities located on Russian territory. It was emphasized that the recent intentional and targeted attack on peaceful residents by the Ukrainian side is clearly classified as terrorism under international law.

Regarding the well-known stance of the Kyiv authorities on the dissolution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, the Russian president expressed hope that the Holy See will more actively protect religious freedom in Ukraine. The conversation was constructive. Both sides expressed their intention to continue communications,” the announcement stated.