Pope pictured for first time since surgery and cancer diagnosis
· World · BBC News, New York Times, Sky News
Pope Leo XIV has been pictured celebrating Mass from Rome's Gemelli Hospital in the first images released by the Vatican since his lung surgery on Tuesday. The 71-year-old pontiff was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma after the successful procedure, during which the lower lobe of his right lung was removed. On Friday, the Pope also phoned Russian President Vladimir Putin to urge a ceasefire in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshky, where food and water access has been cut off. The Vatican and the Kremlin both confirmed that the two leaders agreed to cooperate on ensuring safety and organising vital supplies for the town's population. Medical staff reported a steady improvement in the Pope's general condition, with chest X-rays indicating a good recovery of the operated lung.
Why it matters
The Pope's cancer diagnosis and hospitalisation come at a critical time for the Vatican, as Catholics question the future leadership and daily administration of the Church while he recovers. At the same time, his direct diplomatic intervention in the Ukraine conflict highlights the Holy See's active engagement in urgent humanitarian crises despite the pontiff's medical leave.
Read the original report — BBC News
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