Preparation for First Public Appearance

71-year-old Pope Leo XIV, who had the lower lobe of his right lung removed following a diagnosis of lung cancer at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, was photographed standing and leading a service in the hospital for the first time after a successful operation.

Surgery and Cancer Diagnosis

During the surgical procedure performed on Tuesday at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, the entire lower lobe of the pope's right lung was removed following a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer. It was reported that the operation was successful and proceeded without any complications.

First Photos and Recovery Process

In the initial images released by the Vatican on Friday, the Chicago-born pope was seen standing behind a temporary altar on the tenth floor of the hospital wearing green vestments and celebrating with medical staff.

Blood tests and chest X-rays confirmed steady improvements in the pope's overall health and the operated lung. It was stated that the pope can independently perform his normal daily activities and is expected to remain in the hospital for about a week.

Phone Call with Putin and Ceasefire Call

Calling Russian President Vladimir Putin by phone from his hospital room, Pope Leo appealed for a ceasefire in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshky, where access to food and water has been cut off.

Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin stated he hoped this conversation could be a positive sign toward fulfilling the pope's appeals.

Future Travel Plans

Despite developments in his health, the Vatican announced that preparations for the pope's tour covering Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru in November are continuing as planned. Meanwhile, some cardinals expressed concerns regarding the pope's health, stating that his return to a normal pace will depend on the assessment of doctors.