Pope Leo XIV ponders Ukraine visit amidst first overseas plans
Cardinal Pietro Parolin stated that discussions about Pope Leo XIV's trip to Ukraine are premature. The Pope is considering the invitation from President Zelensky, but no decision has been made yet.
Main information
- Cardinal Pietro Parolin believes that talks on Pope Leo XIV's journey to Ukraine are premature.
- The Pope has received an invitation from the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky.
- The Pope's first foreign trip is expected to be to Iznik in Turkey.
During a phone conversation with Volodymyr Zelensky, Pope Leo XIV was invited to visit Ukraine. Cardinal Parolin emphasised that no decision has been made yet, and the Pope must carefully consider his response to this invitation.
There was an invitation from President Zelenskyy, and now the Pope will think about what to do, but how can I say 'yes' or 'no'? - said Cardinal Parolin.
According to Parolin's announcement, Pope Leo XIV's first foreign trip may be to the Turkish city of Iznik, known in antiquity and the Middle Ages as Nicaea. The visit is related to the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, a key event in the history of Christianity.
Cardinal Parolin stressed that, as is well known, this holds great significance for ecumenism.
Meetings with leaders
Cardinal Parolin also referred to the possibility of the Pope meeting leaders during the inauguration of his pontificate. He noted that it would be difficult for the Pope to meet everyone.
Parolin remarked that it would be challenging for him to arrange meetings with everyone, suggesting that he would either have to meet all or none at all.
The solemn inauguration of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate is planned for Sunday, 18 May. The Mass will commence at 09:00 GMT at St. Peter’s Square.
