Pope Leo is to leave hospital on Saturday just four days after lung cancer surgery, ahead of Sunday prayers

Surgeons at Rome's Gemelli Hospital removed the lower lobe of Pope Leo XIV's right lung on Tuesday, confirming adenocarcinoma. The 71-year-old is due to lead the traditional Angelus prayer on Sunday, his first public appearance since the operation. Vatican images show him celebrating Mass and standing unaided. Cardinal Pietro Parolin has suggested the pontificate may need to be 'adjusted'.

His November 6-17 trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru is still 'going forward'.

Peru's President Keiko Fujimori had speculated the South America visit might be delayed.

King Charles, himself still in cancer treatment, is writing privately to the Pope.