As on every Tuesday, Pope Leo XIV concluded his day of rest and work in Castel Gandolfo, greeting the faithful and briefly answering questions from journalists gathered outside Villa Barberini.

The central theme was the morning audience, also held in Castel Gandolfo, with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky. “We spoke mainly about the war, about how to reach an agreement and a ceasefire. The most concrete point was that of the deported children and prisoners, and how the Church can continue to help them return to Ukraine, especially the minors,” the Pope explained.

The Holy See, always available to facilitate dialogue

Leo XIV reiterated the Vatican’s willingness: “The Holy See is ready to offer spaces and opportunities for negotiation. So far the offer has not been accepted, but we remain available to seek a just and lasting peace.”

Regarding Zelensky’s repeated invitation to visit Ukraine, the Pope responded cautiously: “I hope it’s possible. We have to be realistic; perhaps it can be done, but I don’t know when yet.”

The return of the children: “A slow and discreet process”

Regarding the repatriation of the Ukrainian children, the Pope acknowledged that “unfortunately, it is progressing very slowly” and is being done “behind closed doors.” “That is why I prefer not to comment publicly and to continue working quietly so that these children can return to their families,” he added.

He also declined to comment in detail on the peace plan outlined by US President Donald Trump, saying he hadn’t read it in its entirety. He did, however, lament what he perceived as an attempt to weaken the transatlantic alliance: “Some parts I’ve seen represent a huge change to what for decades has been a true alliance between Europe and the United States.”

“It is not realistic to negotiate peace in Europe without Europe.”

The Pope emphasized the role of the European continent: “The unity of European countries is very significant, especially in this case. Seeking a peace agreement without including Europe in the talks is unrealistic. The war is in Europe; Europe must be included in present and future security guarantees.” He added: “Unfortunately, not everyone sees it this way, but I believe it is a great opportunity for Europe to unite and seek common solutions.”

The visit to the Blue Mosque

When asked about his recent visit to the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul and why he didn’t pray openly like some of his predecessors, Leo XIV responded calmly: “Who says I didn’t pray? I already answered that on the plane: I’m reading ‘The Practice of the Presence of God’ by Brother Lawrence; perhaps I’m praying right now.” He concluded: “I prefer to pray in a Catholic church before the Blessed Sacrament.” He described the media frenzy surrounding his visit as “curious.”

The move to the Apostolic Palace

Finally, regarding his possible move to the papal apartment in the Apostolic Palace—since he still resides in the Palace of the Holy Office—the Pope was clear: “There is no date yet. I am fine where I live. For now, my private secretaries remain with me, and there will be no one else.”