Pope Leo makes feelings clear to thousands in Vatican just days after lung cancer surgery

Before leading prayers, the Pope said: “I would like to thank everyone who has been praying for me these past few days. I have truly felt your support."

He said his diagnosis and surgery made him feel a "special sense of closeness to those who are battling illness and living with a disability".

He continued: “Now that this delicate phase is behind me, as you know, I will gradually resume my activities, as always with God’s help and your prayers.”

On Saturday, the Pontiff was given the all-clear to leave hospital four days after undergoing surgery.

He had a lower lobe of his right lung removed during the 90-minute operation on Tuesday, which was described as a success.

The operation took place at Gemelli Hospital, where he was confirmed to have adenocarcinoma – the most common type of lung cancer.

Following the Angelus prayer, the Pope expressed his "special gratitude" to all of the medical staff at the Rome hospital.

The Vatican has yet to release the results of his medical examinations, which could determine whether he may be required to undergo further cancer treatment.

He is still expected to travel to South America in the coming weeks for a planned 12-day trip.

Beginning on November 6, the Pope will visit 10 cities in Uruguay, Argentina and Peru – where he spent two decades as a missionary.

In an interview with the official news portal of the Holy See, Stefano Margaritora - who operated on the Pontiff - said there were "no clinical reasons" to cancel the scheduled visit.

The surgeon said: “When he was discharged from hospital, Pope Leo was in a perfectly satisfactory clinical condition.

"His blood tests were entirely normal and his heart function was fine. The re-expansion of his lung following the operation is proceeding according to schedule.”

On Friday, the Pope spoke to Vladimir Putin, with the Russian leader urged to seek a truce with Ukraine.

The Pontiff expressed “deep concern” for the humanitarian crisis in the Russian-occupied town of Oleshky, calling on Putin to allow the entry of first aid and food supplies into the town, the Vatican said.

Earlier this week, the Pope thanked well-wishers for their prayers for his health.

In a statement, he said: "As you know, I have been unable to be among you during these days.

"I thank you warmly for your prayers and for the work you have done together. Your sharing of experiences and attentive listening are indeed a gift to the whole Church.

"I am especially grateful to the families who have spoken of their joys, struggles and hopes."

King Charles was among the well-wishers, writing privately to the Pontiff.