Pope Leo XIV and Russian President Vladimir Putin held their first phone conversation, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and a Russian gesture to promote peace in Ukraine amid efforts to address humanitarian needs and uphold Christian values.

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At a critical moment for global peace, Pope Leo XIV and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation on Wednesday, June 4, marking a significant step toward a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine.

The Holy See, through its spokesperson Matteo Bruni, reported that the pontiff made an explicit call for Russia to take a concrete step in favor of peace, highlighting the need for dialogue and positive contacts between the conflicting parties.

During the call, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the fundamental role that shared Christian values can play as a guiding light in the pursuit of peace, the defense of life, and the promotion of genuine religious freedom.

He also expressed gratitude to Patriarch Kirill, head of the Russian Orthodox Church and a close ally of Putin, for his good wishes at the start of the pontificate, reaffirming the spiritual unity that can help overcome political divisions.

Besides political issues, the conversation centered on the severe humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict. The need to facilitate humanitarian aid where necessary was highlighted, along with appreciation for ongoing efforts to exchange prisoners, a task in which Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, the Vatican’s special envoy for Ukraine, plays a key role. This humanitarian approach reflects the Vatican’s concern for the suffering populations and its commitment to social justice.

Speaking by phone with President Vladimir Putin, Pope Leo XIV urges Russia to take a step that favours peace, underlining the importance of dialogue.https://t.co/REk9eC6RcD

— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) June 4, 2025

Russian Commitment to Peace Through Political and Diplomatic Means

Putin confirmed to the pope his interest in achieving peace in Ukraine through political and diplomatic channels, emphasizing that a just resolution requires addressing the root causes of the conflict.

The Kremlin described the conversation as constructive and expressed hope that the Vatican will continue actively promoting religious freedom in Ukraine, demonstrating a willingness to collaborate in building a more just world order based on shared values.

This dialogue between Pope Leo XIV and Vladimir Putin represents an encouraging step in the complex pursuit of peace in Ukraine, underscoring the importance of dialogue, humanitarian cooperation, and respect for common spiritual values as foundations to overcome a conflict that has caused immense suffering in Europe and beyond.

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