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Zelensky meets Pope Leo XIV amid ongoing peace negotiations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met Pope Leo XIV for a 30-minute discussion on December 9 at the papal residence in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, during his diplomatic visit.
The meeting comes as Kyiv seeks international support while navigating complex peace negotiations shaped by a U.S.-backed draft plan. Zelensky is also scheduled to meet Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni later in the day.
According to the Vatican, the discussion emphasized the continuation of dialogue, addressing issues related to prisoners of war, and ensuring the safe return of Ukrainian children to their families. Pope Leo XIV, who has consistently called for a “just and lasting peace,” reaffirmed the Vatican’s willingness to host negotiations.
Zelensky’s visit follows talks in London with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other leaders, as well as meetings in Brussels with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and senior EU officials. Negotiations with Washington continue to focus on sensitive topics, including security guarantees and the status of eastern Ukrainian regions.
Brussels remains divided over proposals to repurpose frozen Russian assets, with Belgium resisting major changes. Meanwhile, discussions between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever have not resulted in shifts in Belgium’s stance.
Recent diplomatic efforts also included a U.S.-brokered meeting in Moscow on December 2 between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which concluded without progress. Kremlin officials continue to insist on core demands, including preventing Ukraine’s NATO membership and securing a withdrawal from parts of Donetsk Oblast — conditions Kyiv rejects.