In a significant diplomatic development, Pope Leo XIV has expressed the Vatican's readiness to host peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, aiming to mediate an end to the ongoing conflict. This initiative has elicited varied responses from international leaders and the involved parties.

On May 20, 2025, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced that Pope Leo XIV confirmed his willingness to host upcoming peace talks between Russia and Ukraine at the Vatican. This confirmation came during a phone call between the Pope and Meloni, who expressed gratitude for his ongoing commitment to peace efforts. The development followed a recent conversation between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which Trump acknowledged the Pope’s interest in facilitating negotiations.

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, was elected as the first American pope in May 2025. In his inaugural address, he emphasized a commitment to peace, stating, "I would like this greeting of peace to enter your hearts, to reach your families and all people, wherever they are; and all the peoples, and all the Earth: Peace be with you."

The Vatican's offer has garnered support from international leaders. U.S. President Donald Trump proposed that peace talks between Russia and Ukraine be held at the Vatican, hosted by Pope Leo XIV. This suggestion followed a phone call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The proposed venue, the Vatican, is seen as a neutral and acceptable location for both parties. This would mark Pope Leo XIV's first major diplomatic engagement since assuming the papacy.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has also expressed openness to the Vatican's involvement. In a recent meeting with Pope Leo XIV, Zelenskyy acknowledged the Vatican's potential role as a venue for peace talks.

However, Russia has expressed reservations. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that no decision had been made regarding the venue for the talks, and no formal proposal had been received from the Vatican. Additionally, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed skepticism about the Vatican serving as a venue, citing religious differences.

The Vatican has a longstanding tradition of mediating international conflicts, leveraging its position as a neutral entity. Pope Leo XIV's American heritage and his commitment to peace initiatives position the Vatican as a potential mediator in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The Vatican's offer to host peace talks between Russia and Ukraine marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict. With support from international leaders and the Vatican's historical role in diplomacy, this initiative could pave the way for meaningful dialogue and, ultimately, a resolution to the crisis.