Pope Leo XIV urges Putin to halt fighting in Oleshky

The Vatican Press Office announced that Pope Leo XIV held a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which he expressed profound worry about the severe humanitarian conditions affecting the city of Oleshky in the Kherson region.

Pope’s Call for Ceasefire and Aid Access

In his appeal, the Pontiff requested an immediate cessation of hostilities to facilitate the delivery of essential food supplies and medical assistance. He further emphasized the need for safe and voluntary evacuation routes for civilian populations trapped in the area.

The statement from the Holy See reaffirmed the Vatican’s ongoing commitment to fostering dialogue and promoting peace as primary objectives in its diplomatic engagements.

Russian Acknowledgment of Supply Issues

Prior to this call, the Kremlin had acknowledged that Oleshky, located within the portion of the Ukrainian Kherson region under Russian control, was facing critical shortages in both food and pharmaceutical provisions.

According to the Russian administration, military forces are actively working to resolve these logistical challenges and restore adequate supply lines to the affected municipality.

Humanitarian Crisis in Occupied Kherson

The town of Oleshky remains entrenched in a sharp humanitarian emergency driven by acute deficits in nutrition and healthcare resources.

Civilian movement is severely restricted due to the presence of landmines and drone attacks, which have effectively blocked evacuation efforts for residents seeking safety.