Pope Leo XIV discusses humanitarian ceasefire in occupied Oleshky with Zelenskyy

According to a statement from the Holy See Press Office, the Pope recalled the grave situation in Oleshky, in Kherson region, and his request to Putin for a humanitarian ceasefire.

The pontiff expressed hope that cooperation between the two sides would allow food and medical supplies to reach civilians and enable their voluntary and safe evacuation.

Zelenskyy said he had briefed the Pope on Russia's escalating attacks against Ukrainian cities and communities, as well as the humanitarian situation in Oleshky.

"We are working to help our people there. We are preparing solutions. His Holiness informed me about contacts with the Russian side on this matter," Zelenskyy said.

The Vatican did not announce any agreement on a ceasefire or humanitarian access.

Humanitarian crisis in Oleshky

Oleshky, a town on the Russian-occupied left bank of the Dnipro River in Kherson region, has been facing a severe humanitarian crisis.

According to Ukrainian reports, regular food deliveries to the area stopped in late May 2026. Russian forces have obstructed civilian evacuations, leaving residents with limited access to food and essential supplies.

More than 6,000 people, including approximately 200 children, may remain in Oleshky and the surrounding area.

Ukraine's Human Rights Commissioner Dmytro Lubinets said in September that Russia had not confirmed its willingness to facilitate a humanitarian evacuation mission.

Ukrainian military personnel have since delivered food and medical supplies to civilians using drones. One operation brought nearly 400 packages weighing a total of four metric tons.

During the October 19 call, Zelenskyy also raised concerns about repeated interruptions in warnings from international partners about incoming Russian ballistic missile attacks.

The Holy See reaffirmed its commitment to promoting dialogue and peace.