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Pope Leo returns home after successful lung cancer surgery

By Drooid · Oct 20, 2026, 2:14 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Pope Leo Holds Audience

Pope Leo held a general audience on Wednesday after lung cancer surgery.
He underwent surgery on October 13 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung.
Doctors reported the operation succeeded without complications, though tumor size and lymph-node involvement were not disclosed.
He pledged to slowly resume duties and planned a November 6-17 South America trip, status unclear.

Summary

Pope Leo Calls Putin

Pope Leo called Russian President Vladimir Putin to request a humanitarian ceasefire for aid to Oleshky.
He also phoned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urging cooperation to deliver food and medical assistance.
Dr. Luigi Carbone and Prof. Stefano Margaritora declared Pope Leo fit for discharge after tests.
He left Gemelli Hospital at about 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 17, three days before the Vatican’s estimate.

Summary

Trump Sends Blessings

President Donald Trump sent personal well-wishes to Pope Leo XIV after his lung cancer diagnosis.
Vice President J.D. Vance posted prayers for the pope’s recovery on X.
Louis Prevost, the pope’s older brother, was hospitalized with cancer in Florida.

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Pope Leo Holds Audience

Pope Leo held a general audience on Wednesday after lung cancer surgery.
He underwent surgery on October 13 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung.
Doctors reported the operation succeeded without complications, though tumor size and lymph-node involvement were not disclosed.
He pledged to slowly resume duties and planned a November 6-17 South America trip, status unclear.

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