Pope Leo XIV to have surgery to remove lung nodule

Pope Leo XIV announced on Sunday that he would undergo surgery in the coming days for a lump on his lung. Speaking in St. Peter's Square, the Catholic leader said the nodule was at a very early stage. The Vatican press office said the recovery time for the 71-year-old pontiff would be around one week. Recently, during some check-ups, the doctors found a localized lump in my lung. It was detected at a very early stage and is very localized. The doctors believe it's better to be safe than sorry, so following their advice, I've decided to have surgery as a precaution. The procedure is already scheduled for the coming days. I thank you for your spiritual support and I entrust myself to your prayers. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her support and that of the government for Leo. The operation should take place in the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, which has frequently treated popes since John Paul II.