Attendance at the Vatican

Former President Trump was among over 50 global leaders attending the funeral in Vatican City, which also saw participation from former President Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden.

This event brought together a significant number of dignitaries, underscoring the international impact and respect associated with the Pope’s legacy.

Significance of the Meeting

Both the White House and Zelenskyy’s office confirmed a brief, important meeting took place at the Vatican. After being seated inside St. Peter’s Basilica, Trump was shortly followed by Zelenskyy, who received applause from attendees as he entered.

This encounter marked the first direct conversation between the two leaders since a contentious Oval Office meeting in late February.

Key Conversation Points

The meeting, which lasted approximately 15 minutes, occurred in the backdrop of ongoing discussions about peace in Ukraine, a frequent topic raised by Pope Francis.

“We discussed a lot one-on-one. Hoping for results on everything we covered. Protecting lives of our people. Full and unconditional ceasefire. Reliable and lasting peace that will prevent another war from breaking out,”

Trump, when asked about the potential for future discussions, acknowledged the limitations of his visit but expressed a desire to engage with key leaders regarding ongoing negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.

A Brief Historical Context

The meeting followed a tumultuous meeting in the Oval Office, where tensions escalated. Trump had urged Zelenskyy to adopt a more appreciative attitude toward the U.S. support.

During that earlier exchange, Trump remarked, “You’re gambling with World War III,” highlighting the stakes involved for both nations.

Concluding Remarks

The meeting’s implications extend beyond their brief conversation, with both leaders expressing hope for meaningful outcomes. Teams are working towards organizing follow-up discussions to explore their shared objectives further.