Pope Leo XIV called President Putin from a Rome hospital on 16/10, urging an immediate ceasefire in Oleshky, a municipality in Kherson province. The Pope expressed deep concern over the dire humanitarian situation in the city, calling for a halt to fighting to facilitate food and medical aid and civilian evacuation.

The call came as the Pope continues to work tirelessly, despite recovering from lung tumor removal surgery performed on 13/10. The Vatican's announcement underscored his dedication during his convalescence.

Pope Leo XIV celebrates mass at a hospital in Rome on 16/10, in the first photo released by the Vatican since his lung cancer surgery. *Photo: Vatican press office*

The Kremlin confirmed the phone call, stating that the two leaders discussed the situation in Oleshky. Russia, according to the Kremlin, "explained in detail the Ukrainian authorities' responsibility for the humanitarian situation" in the city. President Vladimir Putin supported the Vatican's efforts to alleviate the situation and sent wishes for the Pope's swift recovery.

Earlier on 16/10, Pope Leo XIV celebrated mass on the rooftop of Rome's Gemelli hospital. The Vatican released the first photos since his surgery, showing him appearing comfortable and in good spirits, accompanied by his private secretary, Peruvian priest Edgard Rimaycuna.

The Vatican press office reported that the Pope celebrated mass with the hospital's medical staff, including doctors, nurses, and other individuals who appeared to be on break. He extended his gratitude to all staff and caregivers for their dedication, empathy for patients, and for nurturing fragile bodies. The Pope specifically thanked them for devising his treatment plan and providing thoughtful care during his stay.

President Putin speaks at a Shanghai Cooperation Organization conference in Kyrgyzstan on 1/9. *Photo: AP*

Meanwhile, residents in Oleshky face an increasingly desperate situation. Food and medical supplies are dwindling amidst intense crossfire between Russian and Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian officials accuse Russia of "deliberately creating a catastrophe" in the city.

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk strongly condemned the "desperate situation" in Oleshky, demanding Russia clear a path for civilian evacuation.

Vu Hoang (Following AFP, Reuters, AP)