Pope Leo XIV to visit Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru

Pope Leo XIV intends to proceed with his scheduled trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6 to 17, despite his recent surgery to remove a lung nodule. Matteo Bruni, director of the Holy See Press Office, confirmed on October 14 that the pope's intention and desire to travel remain unchanged.

The 71-year-old pontiff is recovering at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where doctors report his postoperative course is proceeding as expected. Following the surgery, the pope underwent respiratory physiotherapy, began walking independently around his room, and resumed a normal diet. Medical imaging, including a chest X-ray and blood tests, showed the operated lung is recovering well and that his values are within the normal range for this type of procedure.

While the Vatican reaffirmed the trip is still planned, some uncertainty remains regarding whether the pope will be physically able to complete the journey. Professor Stefano Margaritora, the chief of thoracic surgery who led the surgical team, stated there are currently no contraindications to the travel. During his hospital stay, the pope has already resumed some official duties, including an in-person meeting with Archbishop Paolo Rudelli, the Substitute for General Affairs.