Pope Leo’s South America Trip Uncertain After Surgery

Pope Leo XIV is recovering from surgery to remove a cancerous nodule in his right lung, with reports saying his postoperative course has been normal. Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin said it is too early to predict how the pope’s health may affect his ministry, though his schedule and travel could be adjusted if needed. Leo’s planned trip to Argentina, Uruguay and Peru has not been officially changed, but its demanding itinerary—particularly travel to high-altitude Cusco and other locations in Peru—could be scaled back. While hospitalized, Leo also reportedly urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to allow a ceasefire and humanitarian aid in the Ukrainian city of Oleshky.