US and European leaders are hopeful the Vatican can mediate peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, after former President Trump said Pope Leo XIV expressed interest. However, Moscow remains reluctant.

Russian officials deny plans for President Putin to visit the Vatican or hold high-level talks now, focusing instead on technical negotiations that resumed last week in Istanbul. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed no Vatican meeting is scheduled.

Still, European diplomats reveal ongoing discussions about the Vatican possibly hosting or mediating future talks, potentially as soon as next week, depending on Russia’s willingness. US officials are coordinating with Ukraine and signaling a preference to exclude hardliners like Putin’s aide Medinsky.

Momentum for papal involvement rose after Trump’s phone call with Putin failed to secure a ceasefire. Trump urged immediate negotiations, backing away if no progress occurs.

Putin refuses travel to Italy, a NATO country, citing security concerns, and does not view the Vatican as neutral. Relations between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Catholic Church further complicate Vatican’s role, with the Russian Church opposing Vatican involvement.

Additionally, Italy’s ICC membership means Putin risks arrest if he visits Rome. Even if hurdles clear, a summit involving Trump, Putin, and Zelenskiy remains distant.

The Vatican signals readiness for diplomacy; Pope Leo met US VP JD Vance recently, and Ukraine has welcomed Vatican engagement. Italian PM Meloni and German Chancellor Merz support papal efforts for peace.

Russia insists on talks in Turkey, maintaining hardline territorial demands. Zelenskiy accuses Putin of delaying to strengthen military actions.

Historically, the Holy See has helped mediate global conflicts, but whether it can broker peace in Ukraine remains uncertain.