President Zelensky Plans to Attend the Historic Inauguration Service of the New Pope
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky does not exclude the possibility of personally attending the solemn ceremony marking the inauguration of Leo XIV in the Vatican, scheduled for Sunday, May 18. This event will be significant not only for the Catholic Church but also for Ukrainian diplomacy and international dialogue amid contemporary challenges. According to information disclosed in an interview with Reuters, the head of the President’s Office, Andriy Yermak, stated that the Ukrainian leader intends to be present at this important ceremony if circumstances and security conditions allow for the planned visit. In his comments, Yermak noted that a visit to the Vatican is possible, but he approaches it with some caution due to the high level of tension and the busy schedule of the head of state. “The President plans to be in Rome on Sunday, but we must consider that our schedule this week includes other important meetings, including negotiations scheduled in Turkey,” he said. At the same time, Yermak emphasized that even during wartime, when circumstances are very difficult, Zelensky strives to utilize every opportunity for diplomatic contacts and high-level meetings. The Head of the President’s Office also added that Ukraine values the diplomatic channel which opens the possibility for informal meetings in the Vatican during Mass. He believes this is a great platform for meetings with world leaders. He recalled, in particular, Zelensky’s successful phone conversation with former U.S. President Donald Trump, which confirmed the potential for productive meetings on the sidelines of festive events. Another important topic for discussion was Zelensky’s first phone call with the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, which took place a few days ago and was positively received by both sides. As Yermak noted, the Pope showed genuine interest in Ukraine, expressed warm words of support, and promised to do everything possible to achieve a just and lasting peace in our country. This offers hope for further strengthening dialogue and diplomatic efforts amid the tragic events around Ukraine. The new Pope—69-year-old Robert Prevo, elected on the second day of the conclave—has already established himself as a supporter of moderate and balanced views within the Catholic Church. His selection is considered a signal of a desire to preserve the rich legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis. In his first Sunday homily, Leo XIV did not shy away from critical topics; he called for a just and strong peace in Ukraine, expressing an aspiration to promote unity and stability in this conflict-ridden region. The intensification of diplomatic initiatives ahead of the special ceremony in the Vatican demonstrates Ukraine’s desire to establish new contacts and engage the global community in resolving the crisis in Ukraine. At the same time, many experts emphasize that in today’s conditions, the participation of high-ranking politicians in such religious ceremonies holds strategic importance, as it is not only a diplomatic tradition but also a symbol of support and solidarity, especially in the context of military challenges. Overall, discussions are ongoing in Kyiv and on the international stage regarding Zelensky’s potential visit to the Vatican, as his participation in the inauguration of the new leader of the Catholic Church could serve as a significant message for Ukraine and the world. It would be a sign of spiritual support and diplomatic dialogue, particularly important amid the acute internal and external crises. Regardless of the final decision, this event has every chance of becoming one of the key moments on Ukraine’s foreign policy calendar this year. Although weather and security factors may influence the reality of the visit, the prospect of it taking place provides a new impetus for further international dialogue and the strengthening of Ukraine’s position on the global stage.