POPE LEO SPEAKS ON PHONE WITH PUTIN FROM HOSPITAL , CALLS FOR CEASEFIRE IN OLESHKY

What happened: Pope Leo spoke by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Oct. 16 from Rome's Gemelli Hospital, expressing concern about the humanitarian situation in Oleshky in the Kherson region and calling for a ceasefire. Key numbers: Call took place Oct. Why it matters: The Holy See Press Office said the Pope called for a ceasefire to allow delivery of food and medical assistance and the safe evacuation of civilians, and reaffirmed the Holy See's commitment to promoting dialogue and peace. The call came as he continued recovering from surgery and respiratory physiotherapy.

Pope Leo's hospital call to Putin urging a ceasefire in Oleshky signals high-level diplomatic intervention.

Pope Leo's hospital call to Putin urging a ceasefire in Oleshky signals high-level diplomatic intervention. — impact context not separately stored; see What changed.