Former Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Herrera leans toward Pope Leo XIV during a reception in Montevideo on Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, as the pope moves his hand away from an attempted ring-kissing gesture. (Foto: Instagram)
Former Uruguayan president Luis Lacalle Herrera attempted to kiss Pope Leo XIV’s ring during a reception in Montevideo on Friday, November 6, 2026. As Uruguayan officials greeted the pope, Lacalle Herrera leaned in to perform the traditional gesture, but Leo declined and moved his hand away.
Kissing the pope’s ring is traditionally regarded as a sign of respect and humble deference to Catholic authority. Known as the Fisherman’s Ring, it is one of the main symbols of papal authority.
Leo’s response echoed a practice adopted by his predecessor, Pope Francis. Francis sometimes pulled his hand away when people tried to kiss it. His actions were interpreted as an effort to present a more humble church that was closer to its followers.
Leo arrived in Uruguay on Friday as part of a South American trip that is also scheduled to include Argentina and Peru. Those at the reception included President Yamandú Orsi, Lucía Topolansky—the widow of José “Pepe” Mujica—and former presidents Luis Lacalle Pou and Julio María Sanguinetti. Lacalle Herrera served as Uruguay’s president from 1990 to 1995.
