Trump and Zelensky Hold Historic Meeting at Pope Francis's Funeral Amid Push for Peace in Ukraine

Hadisur Rahman, JadeTimes Staff

H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering the USA.

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Image Source: Andriy Yermak

In a development that could shape the future of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump met face to face for the first time since their tense White House encounter in February. The symbolic meeting took place at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, minutes before the funeral of Pope Francis commenced.

A Highly Symbolic and Potentially Historic Meeting

The 15-minute conversation between Trump and Zelensky, described by the White House as "very productive," took place in a private corner of the Basilica. Images circulated on social media captured the two leaders deeply engrossed in conversation, setting a tone of serious dialogue against the solemn backdrop of the late Pope’s funeral.

Following the meeting, President Zelensky called the encounter "very symbolic" and expressed hope that it had "the potential to become historic" if it leads to concrete joint results in ending the ongoing war.

This sit-down marks a notable shift in their relationship since February, when Trump had sharply criticized Zelensky, stating, "you don't have the cards," and blaming him for stalling peace negotiations. Despite past criticisms, Saturday’s meeting seemed to offer a more cooperative atmosphere.

Trump Takes Aim at Putin Post-Meeting

After leaving Rome, Trump openly criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin. In a post on his social media account, Trump questioned Putin’s sincerity in seeking peace, stating,

"There’s no reason for Putin to be shooting missiles into civilian areas... Maybe he doesn’t want to stop the war and has to be dealt with differently, through 'Banking' or 'Secondary Sanctions'?"

Trump’s comments suggested a tougher stance on Russia moving forward, a significant shift from his earlier positions.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin claimed that Putin had assured Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff of Russia’s willingness to enter direct talks with Ukraine “without preconditions.” However, skepticism remains high among Western leaders.

Global Leaders Weigh In

Following the Basilica meeting, Zelensky also held talks with:

• Emmanuel Macron at Villa Bonaparte, the French Embassy to the Holy See.

• Sir Keir Starmer at Villa Wolkonsky, the British Ambassador's residence.

• European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, strengthening Ukraine’s diplomatic ties across Europe.

In his statement, Macron emphasized that the goal of ending the war in Ukraine is "shared in common with President Trump," highlighting a rare alignment among world powers.

A Downing Street spokesperson noted that Starmer and Zelensky agreed to "maintain momentum" in securing a just and lasting peace and pledged to "speak again at the earliest opportunity."

The Road to Peace: Ceasefire and Concessions?

During February’s Oval Office showdown, Trump pressured Zelensky to accept territorial concessions, including relinquishing Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014. Zelensky firmly rejected such proposals then, and continues to stress that any peace plan must start with a "full and unconditional ceasefire."

In a recent interview with the BBC, Zelensky reiterated,

"A full and unconditional ceasefire opens up the possibility to discuss everything."

Thus, while Saturday’s meeting may not have produced immediate agreements, it set a critical foundation for future diplomatic efforts.

What we get to know from this article is clear:

The meeting between Trump and Zelensky was not just about optics. It was a potential turning point in the quest for peace in Ukraine. Against the backdrop of one of the most symbolic venues the funeral of a pope who championed peace the two leaders’ discussion marks a step toward renewed dialogue, supported by key international allies.

Whether this encounter will truly become historic depends on the actions and negotiations that follow. But one thing is certain: the world is watching closely.