Trump and Zelensky Meet Again at Pope's Funeral Despite Peace Deal Tension
Former President of the United States Donald Trump and President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met again under unusual circumstances, this time at the funeral of Pope Francis at St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. Their meeting was brief but full of significance with the war in Ukraine still raging and peace talks on shaky ground.
The encounter lasted about 15 minutes and was described as "productive" by officials from both sides. In the middle of participating in the solemn ceremony with world leaders, the two managed to squeeze in some time to talk about the contentious issue of the war between Ukraine and Russia. Trump and Zelensky spoke in low tones, away from the huge crowds that had gathered to offer their respects to the deceased pontiff, who had been universally celebrated for promoting peace and dialogue throughout his life.
At the forefront of their conversation was the question of a ceasefire. President Zelensky firmly reiterated Ukraine's position that any peaceful settlement must ensure a "complete and unconditional" halt to hostilities, without concession to Ukrainian sovereignty or territorial integrity. Trump, for his side, emphasized the dire need to stop the bloodshed, especially in light of recent missile attacks that have continued to claim civilian lives across Ukraine.
This latest encounter follows diplomatic maneuvering that has become more complex. Trump earlier this year suggested that Ukraine would need to make "tough choices," a hint of territorial concessions to Russia that angered many Ukrainians and drew fierce criticism from Zelensky. Despite their dispute, the two leaders agreed on the imperative of pushing talks to avoid further devastation.
The funeral gave the talks a jarring contrast: under the lofty ceilings of St. Peter's Basilica, while the world was mourning a leader who tirelessly preached unity and compassion, two presidents disagreed on the prospects of an end to one of the deadliest conflicts of the 21st century. The other leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, were also seen exchanging a few words with Trump and Zelensky after the funeral, which was an indication of broader international support for new peace efforts.
But there is tension underlying the surface. Trump, while a public cheerleader for a peace deal, has privately doubted whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is willing to negotiate in good faith. Zelensky, for his part, is dubious about any agreement that would force Ukraine to give up portions of its territory, such as Crimea and the eastern Donbas region, that have been under dispute since 2014.
To add to the complexity, American diplomat Steve Witkoff has been holding parallel talks with Russian negotiators to broach possible parameters of a settlement. So far, however, few concrete progress has been reported. Diplomats acknowledge that while Trump's involvement brings a forceful personality back into the diplomatic mix, the road to peace remains fraught with obstacles.
For Zelensky, the Vatican meeting was another chance to ensure Ukraine is not lost in the new world of diplomacy. For Trump, a chance to present himself as a potential peacemaker ahead of the U.S. presidential election, where foreign policy will play an important role.
While the symbolism of the meeting was powerful, it remains to be seen whether it will translate into real momentum for peace. The two leaders are under immense pressure—Zelensky from a war-weary and battle-scarred public at home, and Trump from political forces in Washington deeply divided over continued support for Ukraine.
However, that Trump and Zelensky were willing to meet again, especially at such a historic and emotional event, suggests that behind the scenes, efforts at some kind of resolution are being attempted. Whether or not these talks will eventually lead to an official ceasefire or permanent peace agreement remains to be seen.
As the world laments the legacy of Pope Francis—a man who always preached dialogue over war—there is a hope that the spirit of reconciliation lauded during his funeral will ignite new efforts to bring an end to the brutal war in Ukraine.
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