Pope Leo XIV Arrives in Uruguay for South American Tour After Surgery

Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Uruguay for a 12-day tour of South America. His arrival on November 6, 2026, comes just three weeks after he underwent surgery for lung cancer.

The 71-year-old pontiff landed at Carrasco International Airport in Ciudad de la Costa, near Montevideo. Journalists traveling with him on the papal plane confirmed his arrival.

During the flight from the Vatican, Pope Leo expressed that he was feeling “fairly good” and was “very happy” to be back in South America. He mentioned that he had spent nearly two decades as a missionary in the region.

Despite some doubts about the trip’s feasibility, the Pope stated, “I had no doubt and was convinced that this trip had to go forward.” His visit marks the beginning of a journey across South America, reconnecting with a region that is significant to him.