Former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a private meeting at the Vatican before Pope Francis' funeral. The meeting, described as productive by both leaders, focused on potential peace plans and the ongoing war in Ukraine. Zelenskyy expressed hopes for a lasting peace, a ceasefire, and the protection of Ukrainian lives. This encounter marks their first face-to-face meeting since a previous exchange in February, with discussions also touching on the return of Ukrainian children and prisoners. The meeting highlighted the Vatican's diplomatic role and the international focus on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
7 days ago
U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a face-to-face meeting at St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican on April 26, 2025, prior to Pope Francis' funeral Mass 9. The unexpected encounter occurred amidst the solemn atmosphere of the Pope's funeral, marking their first meeting since a tense exchange in the Oval Office in February 1 9. The setting within the Vatican, a historical hub of global diplomacy, added significance to the meeting 3 6.
During their 15-minute discussion, Trump and Zelenskyy addressed potential paths toward peace in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war 5 7. Zelenskyy expressed hopes for a "full and unconditional ceasefire" and a "reliable and lasting peace" 5 8. Both leaders emphasized the importance of protecting Ukrainian lives 5 9. The meeting was described as "productive" by a White House spokesperson 3 9.
Following the meeting, Trump appeared to adopt a harsher stance towards Russia, particularly in response to a recent missile and drone attack on Kyiv 3 6. He questioned President Vladimir Putin's commitment to ending the war and suggested exploring stronger measures such as "Banking" or "Secondary Sanctions" 3 9. This shift contrasted with the Trump administration's previous pressure on Zelenskyy to accept peace terms that would concede territory to Russia 1 9.
The meeting took place against the backdrop of Pope Francis' consistent calls for peace and dialogue throughout the Russia-Ukraine conflict 3 5 8. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re's homily at the funeral emphasized Pope Francis' dedication to building bridges and resolving conflicts 3 6. Archbishop Gudziak viewed the Trump-Zelenskyy encounter as a "gift" from Pope Francis, potentially fostering prospects for peace 1. Pope Francis' numerous appeals for peace, sometimes 350 times publicly, underscored his commitment 1.
Zelenskyy hailed the meeting as "very symbolic" and expressed optimism that it could become "historic" if joint results are achieved 5 8 9. Trump's National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz, characterized the meeting as "tough diplomacy in one of the most beautiful places in the world" 3 9. Senator Dick Durbin emphasized the need to uphold Pope Francis' message of "love, peace, understanding, and respect" 9. The meeting has reopened channels of communication at a personal level between Trump and Zelenskyy 1.
I cannot provide information about a meeting between former President Trump and President Zelenskyy at the Vatican during a Pope's funeral, discussing peace, as I do not have any information about this event. However, I can offer insights into the Holy See's consistent efforts to promote peace and mediate in conflict situations, particularly regarding Ukraine.
The Holy See's dedication to fostering peace is evident through its persistent calls for dialogue, humanitarian efforts, and condemnation of violence. It views peace as essential for human dignity and actively works to promote reconciliation and justice in conflict zones, including Ukraine.