In a poignant moment during Pope Francis's funeral in Vatican City, President Donald Trump seemed to relish his front-row seat at the historic event. However, more noteworthy than his prominent position was the rare meeting he had with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which took place right before the funeral commenced. Positioned in two red jacquard chairs off to the side in St. Peter’s Basilica, the two leaders engaged in a deep conversation, symbolizing a moment of diplomatic dialogue amid rising global tensions.
As they sat facing each other against the backdrop of ornate marble floors and towering columns, Trump and Zelensky leaned in, appearing fully engaged in their discussion. The significance of this meeting cannot be understated; it marked their first interaction since their tumultuous Oval Office exchange back in February. While neither leader has disclosed the specifics of their conversation, the meeting stood as a testament to the peacemaking efforts that Pope Francis advocated throughout his papacy.
The funeral attracted hundreds of dignitaries and foreign leaders, with attendance reaching an estimated 250,000 people. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrived in Rome just prior to the event, marking Trump’s first international trip of his second term. His presence at this significant occasion came during a time of heightened friction between him and various global leaders.
In the weeks leading up to the funeral, Trump had made headlines for implementing tariffs against longtime allies and pressuring them into controversial agreements. Despite these tensions, the atmosphere at the funeral suggested a façade of unity, as Trump warmly greeted multiple world leaders, including Zelensky. Before arriving in Rome, Trump expressed his anticipation for engaging in conversations with other leaders present, stating, “I have a lot of meetings set up.”
Upon arrival at St. Peter’s Basilica, Melania Trump donned a stylish black double-breasted trench dress paired with a lace mantilla veil, while Trump opted for a dark blue suit and tie, standing out among the sea of black attire worn by other attendees. The couple approached Pope Francis’s sealed casket, paying their respects with solemn nods.
In the lead-up to the funeral, Trump commented on his admiration for the late pope, stating, “He loved the world, actually, and he was just a good man.” Trump also mentioned the significance of his attendance, highlighting his favorable relationship with the Catholic vote.
Following the tributes, Trump met with Zelensky shortly after paying respect to the pope’s casket. Also joining them were British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, showcasing an atmosphere of collaboration. Trump's ongoing push for a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine remained a focal point during their discussions. He expressed optimism about a potential resolution but criticized Zelensky for delays in signing an important agreement regarding rare earth resources.
White House communications director Steven Cheung characterized the meeting as “very productive,” while Zelensky echoed similar sentiments on social media, expressing hope for meaningful outcomes from their discussions, particularly concerning a ceasefire and lasting peace.
The seating protocol for the funeral placed Trump in the first row, an arrangement he has often remarked upon as indicative of power dynamics in international relations. Trump had previously criticized the seating arrangements of other leaders, emphasizing the importance of location in both politics and life.
Notably, President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden were also in attendance, though it was unclear whether they interacted with the Trumps. Biden, a practicing Catholic, shared a long-standing admiration for Pope Francis, often reflecting on their personal connection.
Following the funeral, Trump and Melania offered final greetings to various heads of state before departing in a motorcade headed to Leonardo da Vinci International Airport. After a whirlwind 14-hour visit to Rome, Trump boarded Air Force One, returning to the United States to celebrate the First Lady’s birthday.
This significant event not only underscored the complexities of global diplomacy but also highlighted the personal relationships among world leaders against the backdrop of a historic farewell to Pope Francis.
