Vatican City

Pope Leo XIV met with U.S. Vice President Marco Rubio and Secretary of State JD Vance on Monday, coinciding with a U.S.-led initiative to address the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

A photograph released by the Vatican captured Vance and Rubio sharing a smile with the Pope, who recently became the leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics on May 8.

The duo was part of a gathering of around 200,000 dignitaries, royals, and the faithful who celebrated the official start of Leo’s papacy during the inauguration Mass held in St. Peter’s Square.

At 69 years old, Pope Leo is expected to discuss with Vance and Rubio the U.S. administration’s role in shaping diplomatic efforts, especially regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Later on Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to speak with Russia’s Vladimir Putin as part of ongoing efforts to resolve the war triggered by Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Vance also met with Paul Richard Gallagher, representing the Vatican. Gallagher noted that they had “heartfelt discussions” and expressed satisfaction with their good relations.

He added, “We exchanged views on current international issues and emphasized the importance of humanitarian and international law in conflict zones, advocating for negotiated solutions.”

Diplomatic discussions continued alongside Leo’s inauguration, with global officials weighing in on both the situation in Gaza and the conflict in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who also attended the inauguration Mass, had his first private meeting with Leo on Sunday.

He, along with Vance and Rubio, addressed their shared goal of ceasing the violence in Ukraine.

“All efforts”

Last week, Pope Leo expressed his willingness to mediate among the warring nations, promising he would “strive for peace to prevail.”

According to reports, the Pope’s second Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin, indicated on Friday that Leo “could facilitate an in-person meeting between the involved parties.”

Vance’s meeting with Leo lasted approximately 45 minutes, as reported by a Vice President’s spokesperson.

Prior to his papacy, Leo had expressed criticisms via social media regarding President Trump’s policies on immigration and Vance’s views.

Nonetheless, Vance remarked on Sunday that the U.S. is “very proud of him,” adding, “Our prayers will accompany him as he embarks on this vital mission.”

JD Vance converted to Catholicism in 2019, joining Rubio, who is also a Catholic.

Additionally, Vance and Gallagher discussed various topics concerning the specific relationship between the church and the nation, focusing on religious freedoms and the life of the church.

Elected last month following the passing of Pope Francis, Leo now faces numerous urgent challenges within the Catholic Church.

These include navigating support and opposition to Francis’ reforms, particularly in the U.S., amid rising tensions in the West.