Pope Leo XIV to Leave Hospital After Lung Cancer Surgery

Pope Leo XIV is set to be released from the hospital on Saturday, just four days after undergoing surgery for lung cancer. The Vatican announced that he will deliver the traditional noon blessing from a window overlooking St. Peter's Square on Sunday.

The 71-year-old pontiff had a cancerous nodule removed from the lower lobe of his right lung, which was confirmed to be adenocarcinoma. His personal physician stated that he was deemed fit for discharge based on favorable blood test results and a chest X-ray conducted on Saturday morning.

Following the surgery, Leo has shown signs of recovery, including holding a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin and celebrating Mass in a hospital chapel. The Vatican released images of him participating in liturgical activities, and he expressed gratitude to hospital staff for their care. With a planned trip to Latin America approaching in November, the Vatican has indicated that preparations for the journey are underway, pending further medical evaluations.