Pope Leo XIV to Proceed with South America Trip Following Surgery
Source reports published 27 Oct 2026, 3:09 am – 6:54 am AEST
Pope Leo XIV will travel to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6th to 17th following a successful lung cancer surgery. The Vatican confirmed the trip will proceed as planned, with the Pope resuming his activities and prioritizing recovery.
What happened
- Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to travel to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6th to 17th.
- Following a lung cancer surgery on October 13th, where a lobe was removed due to adenocarcinoma, doctors determined there were no medical reasons preventing travel.
- The Vatican press office stated the Pope’s recovery is progressing favorably, with a gradual resumption of activities and adjusted scheduling.
- His physician, Luigi Carbone, confirmed the trip, involving twelve flights and two helicopter rides to high altitudes, is permissible.
- Pope Leo expressed gratitude for support and anticipation for returning to the continent, stating the trip would strengthen ties with local churches and promote a message of faith, hope, and peace.
Original reporting
- Sky News: Vatican issues Pope health update ahead of South America trip
2026-10-26T17:09:00+00:00 - PBS NewsHour: Following post-surgery checkup, Pope Leo will proceed with Latin America trip, Vatican confirms
2026-10-26T20:54:31+00:00