In brief
Pope Leo XIV was photographed celebrating Mass in the Gemelli Hospital’s 10th floor, marking his first public appearance since lung surgery. The 71‑year‑old pontiff underwent a successful lower‑lobe removal and was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, found early and contained. He used his hospital stay to call Russian President Vladimir Putin to urge a ceasefire in the occupied Ukrainian town of Oleshky, sparking Kremlin comments of support. Doctors report a steady recovery; the pope will likely remain in the hospital for about a week.
Pope Leo XIV was photographed celebrating Mass in the Gemelli Hospital’s 10th floor, wearing a green robe and standing before a wooden crucifix – the first images since his lung surgery.
The 71‑year‑old pontiff underwent a successful removal of the lower lobe of his right lung on Tuesday afternoon. After the operation, he was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a form of lung cancer that the Vatican described as well‑contained and found early.
During the weekend, the pope called Russian President Vladimir Putin from hospital to urge a ceasefire in the occupied Ukrainian town of Oleshky, where supplies have been cut off. The Kremlin said it supported the Vatican’s aim to secure the town’s safety and allow vital supplies to pass, and the Vatican’s secretary of state welcomed the talk.
Doctors reported that a chest X‑ray shows a good recovery of the operated lung and that the pope’s general condition has steadily improved. He awoke normally after the operation, spent a peaceful night, and now awaits a week‑long stay for further recovery.
Earlier in the year, Leo XIV had announced the planned operation during Sunday prayers, explaining that the nodule found on his lung was removed before it could turn serious. He and his advisors noted the absence of any symptoms prior to the procedure.
