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Putin told Pope Leo he backs Vatican idea to help civilians in Oleshky, Kremlin says

Reuters • October 16, 2026 • world

Key Points:

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed support for a Vatican initiative aimed at delivering supplies to civilians in the Russian-controlled town of Oleshky in southern Ukraine during a phone call with Pope Leo.
Pope Leo had urged Putin to agree to a truce to allow the entry of first aid and food supplies and to permit a voluntary evacuation of civilians from Oleshky.
Both Russia and Ukraine accuse each other of blocking supplies to the town, which Ukrainian forces aim to retake.
The Kremlin confirmed agreement to cooperate with the Vatican to ensure the safety of the town’s population and organize vital supplies.