The Italian government said in a statement that the EU leaders are working to immediately start negotiations between the parties that can lead to a ceasefire as soon as possible and build conditions for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.

"The Holy Father's willingness to host the talks at the Vatican was considered positive. Italy is ready to do its part to facilitate contacts and work for peace," the Italian government statement said.

US President Donald Trump said after a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier the same day that Pope Leo XIV offered to host peace negotiations.

On Sunday, Ukraine’s Presidential Office also said that President Volodymyr Zelensky had met with Pope Leo XIV and expressed hope that the Vatican “could play an important role” in international efforts to end the conflict.

President Trump has held phone calls on the Ukraine issue with President Putin, President Zelensky, and leaders of the European Union, France, Italy, Germany, and Finland.