Pope Leo XIV has been discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, just four days after undergoing surgery to remove a cancerous growth from his right lung, in a development likely to reassure Catholics around the world.

The 71-year-old pontiff walked unaided to his waiting car and stopped to speak to well-wishers as he left the hospital, following an operation that involved the removal of the lower lobe of his right lung.

The Vatican announced that the Pope is expected to deliver the traditional Angelus prayer and blessing to a crowd in St Peter’s Square on Sunday, marking his return to public engagement sooner than many had anticipated.

The appearance would follow last week’s surprise announcement in which the Pope revealed that he had undergone surgery.

According to a statement from his medical team, blood tests and a chest X-ray conducted on Friday showed “steady improvement” in his condition following the operation.

The 90-minute procedure was carried out on Tuesday. However, the results of further tests to establish whether the cancer has spread beyond the affected area have not yet been announced.

Photographs released on Friday showed the Pope celebrating Mass and distributing Holy Communion to hospital staff, offering an indication of his continued participation in religious activities during his recovery.

Pope Speaks to Putin Amid Intensifying Ukraine War

While recovering in hospital, Pope Leo XIV also spoke by telephone with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, in their first conversation since June 2025.

The Vatican said the call focused on promoting “dialogue and peace” amid the continuing war in Ukraine.

The conversation came as Russian bombardments of Ukrainian cities intensified, resulting in mounting civilian casualties and with little indication that Moscow was prepared to halt its invasion.

The Pope has consistently called for an end to hostilities and renewed diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.

He also appealed for a humanitarian ceasefire in Oleshkiy, a Ukrainian city under Russian occupation that has faced persistent shelling.

The proposed ceasefire would allow civilians to be evacuated and facilitate the urgent delivery of food, medicine and other essential supplies.

The appeal highlights growing concerns about the humanitarian situation in areas affected by the fighting, where residents face severe shortages of basic necessities.

Recovery Raises Questions Over Planned Latin America Trip

The Vatican had cleared the Pope’s schedule until 20 October, making his planned appearance on Sunday an unexpected development.

His early discharge and reported improvement are likely to bring relief to Catholics worldwide, although questions remain about his recovery and the extent of further medical treatment he may require.

Those close to the pontiff have indicated that he is keen to avoid postponing a planned trip to Latin America in early November.

The proposed visit includes Peru, where Leo XIV spent many years as a missionary before becoming Pope.

However, it remains uncertain whether he will be medically fit to undertake the journey or whether doctors will recommend additional treatment and recovery time.

The outcome of further medical tests is expected to be important in determining his next steps.

For now, his discharge from hospital marks a significant stage in his recovery, even as the Vatican continues to balance his medical needs with the demands of his religious and diplomatic responsibilities.