Vatican confirms Pope Leo will fly 31,000 km to South America

The Vatican confirmed on Monday that Pope Leo will proceed with his scheduled trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. The announcement follows new medical examinations that show the 71-year-old leader is fit enough to undertake the journey.

The pontiff is recovering from surgery performed on October 13. During that procedure, doctors removed the lower lobe of his right lung and diagnosed him with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer. Luigi Carbone, Leo's personal physician, provided the medical clearance.

According to a Vatican statement, Leo's recovery continues with a favorable clinical condition. The document notes that instrumental and laboratory tests revealed no contraindications preventing him from traveling. The trip will run from November 6 to 17.

The itinerary remains unchanged from the previously published agenda. The tour will cover approximately 31,000 kilometers across 10 cities. Leo is expected to deliver 36 speeches during the visit. This schedule makes it one of the most intense foreign trips undertaken by a Catholic leader in recent decades.

Leo served as a missionary in Peru for decades before Pope Francis summoned him to Rome in 2023. The upcoming tour marks a return to the continent where he lived for many years. In the Vatican message, Leo expressed his eagerness to revisit the region where he experienced key moments of his life.

"I am looking forward to returning to the continent where I’ve experienced so many moments of my life," Leo said. He added that the journey should allow the faithful to open their hearts to one another and renew their commitment to proclaiming the Gospel.

The Vatican noted that Leo is adjusting his daily schedule in consultation with doctors to prioritize recovery while fulfilling his ministry. On Sunday, he addressed the faithful in St. Peter's Square. However, on medical advice, he canceled a planned day visit to Assisi that had been set for Tuesday.