Pope returns to Vatican days after surgery; surgeon says he should be fit for Latin America tour

Pope Leo XIV returned to the Vatican on Saturday following lung cancer surgery, just days after being admitted to the hospital. His medical team has stated there are no clinical reasons to prevent him from undertaking his planned tour of Latin America next month, noting that the pontiff has dedicated himself fully to his recovery.

The discharge and subsequent return to Vatican City mark a significant milestone in the Pope's recuperation from major surgery. With his surgeon confirming his fitness for travel, preparations for the upcoming international visit appear to be moving forward as scheduled.