Pope Meets Zelensky as Ukraine Updates Russia War Strategy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met Pope Leo XIV in Italy on Tuesday ahead of submitting revised proposals to the United States aimed at ending Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Zelensky’s visit follows talks on Monday in London and Brussels with European leaders, as US President Donald Trump continues to push Kyiv for a settlement. Trump has criticized Zelensky for reportedly not reviewing Washington’s initial plan, which Ukraine’s allies considered too favorable to Russia.

The original 28-point US plan has now been reduced to 20 points after discussions over the weekend, Zelensky said during an online press briefing. “We do not agree with everything our partners proposed. The challenge lies less with the Americans and more with the Russians,” he explained. He added that Kyiv would submit its response to Washington on Tuesday evening.

A key sticking point is Ukraine’s refusal to cede territory not occupied by Russian forces. Zelensky emphasized that under Ukrainian law, the country has no legal or moral authority to surrender land. He also stressed the importance of securing international guarantees in case of future Russian aggression, which remains unresolved.

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On Tuesday, Zelensky visited Pope Leo at Castel Gandolfo near Rome and is scheduled to meet Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, a strong supporter of Kyiv. While Italy has provided weapons for use inside Ukraine, Meloni’s coalition partner Matteo Salvini remains more cautious, questioning ongoing military aid.

Before heading to Brussels, Zelensky met with leaders of Britain, France, and Germany in London. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed Europe’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and long-term security. French President Emmanuel Macron said Europe is preparing “robust security guarantees and reconstruction measures,” while seeking alignment with the US approach.

Since returning to office in January, Trump has taken a fluctuating stance on Ukraine—criticizing Zelensky for perceived ingratitude but also imposing sanctions on Russian oil companies in an attempt to pressure Moscow.