‘Let Aid Get Through’: Pope Leo Urges Russia And Ukraine To Help Civilians Trapped In Oleshky

On October 19, Pope Leo XIV spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to press for cooperation in delivering humanitarian aid to civilians trapped in Russian-occupied Oleshky, Kherson region. Referring to his October 16 call with Vladimir Putin, he reiterated a ceasefire plea to allow food, medical supplies and safe evacuations, and affirmed the Holy See’s commitment to dialogue and peace.