Pope Leo XIV made church appointments and spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday, Oct. 19, six days after lung cancer surgery, as he gradually resumed official duties at the Vatican.
The Holy See announced Leo’s appointment of members to the International Theological Commission and released an account of his call with Zelensky. It said Leo hoped cooperation by both sides would allow food and medical aid into Oleshky and let civilians leave safely if they choose.
An Oct. 13 operation removed the lower lobe of Leo’s right lung. Doctors identified the cancer as pulmonary adenocarcinoma, and he left a Rome hospital on Oct. 17. Leo had worked on documents while hospitalized and said Sunday that he would resume his activities gradually.
The Holy See said Leo would continue recovering at the Vatican this week. His trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru remains scheduled for Nov. 6-17. He is due to hold a public audience in St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday, Oct. 21.
