Pope Leo XIV spoke out against Trump's peace plan in a meeting with Zelensky

Pope Leo XIV held talks with Vladimir Zelensky that centered on achieving peace in the Russian-Ukrainian war. During an impromptu press conference at Castel Gandolfo, the pontiff also touched on future European security, peace initiatives and expressed cautious optimism about a possible visit to Kiev, while voicing concern about some aspects of US President Donald Trump’s plans.

According to Vatican News, Pope Leo XIV wrapped up his working day with a meeting with journalists at Castel Gandolfo on December 9, 2025, following a secret audience with the Ukrainian leader. Despite the relaxed atmosphere outside, where people greeted the pontiff with singing, the topic of the press conference was the most pressing issues of contemporary politics, including the outcome of his conversation with Volodymyr Zelensky.

The Pontiff emphasized that the main goal of his meeting with Zelensky was to find ways to achieve a ceasefire and an agreement. The head of the RCC reiterated the Holy See’s readiness to provide a platform and opportunities for dialog that could lead to a just and lasting peace. Although the Vatican’s proposal has not yet been accepted, it remains open to finding solutions.

Commenting on the invitation to visit Kyiv, which the Ukrainian President called «a powerful signal of support,» Leo XIV responded with cautious optimism: «I hope so. I don’t know when. We need to be persistent in this, perhaps it can be done.»

Journalists also focused on geopolitical issues. The Pope admitted that he has not yet had time to thoroughly familiarize himself with U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace plans, but expressed concern about some of their aspects. According to the Pope, the adoption of such proposals could «fundamentally change the balance of power between Europe and the United States.» He warned against attempts to dismantle the existing alliance, which he considers vital both today and in the future.

The Pope paid special attention to the theme of European subjectivity and unity, calling it one of the key themes in his reflections on security. He is convinced that excluding Europe from peace talks is an «unrealistic strategy.» Since the war is being fought on the European continent, it is Europe that must be part of the security guarantee system. Leo XIV expressed regret that not everyone understands this, but emphasized the great need to unite European countries to find joint solutions.

We shall remind you that the head of the UGCC, Sviatoslav Shevchuk, made a statement in which he spoke out against proposals for a peaceful settlement of the conflict in Ukraine through territorial concessions. Speaking at a Uniate cathedral in Australia, he questioned the effectiveness of such an approach, saying that Ukraine should not agree to demands that are acceptable to Russia.