Macron and Pope Leo XIV Hold First Conversation on Peace Efforts in Ukraine and Gaza, Address Ukrainian POWs at Vatican

French President Emmanuel Macron held his first conversation with Pope Leo XIV, discussing the need for efforts to silence weapons globally, with a particular focus on achieving a lasting and sustainable peace in Ukraine and Gaza. The discussion took place via a phone call, highlighting the urgency of peace efforts in these conflict zones.

Macron also congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his recent election and shared their mutual ambition to reconcile the fight against poverty with the protection of the planet. This conversation underscores the new pontiff's commitment to peace and environmental issues, as he begins his tenure.

Separately, during the Jubilee of Eastern Churches at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV received a list of Ukrainian prisoners of war held by Russia. The Pope expressed his solidarity with the Ukrainian people, calling for the release of all prisoners and the return of children to their families, emphasizing his dedication to peace and humanitarian efforts. There have been 64 prisoner swaps since Russia's full-scale invasion began in February 2022, with five occurring in 2025.