Trump And Zelenskyy Held A Private Meeting Before Pope Francis’ Funeral, With Both Saying It Was Productive
“Very symbolic meeting that has potential to become historic, if we achieve joint results.” Zelenskyy wrote.
US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a private meeting in the Vatican ahead of Pope Francis’ funeral on Saturday, April 26, for the first time after the two had a massive argument at the White House in March.
In photos released by Kyiv and Washington, the two were seen seated alone, leaning close to each other, deep in conversation, in St. Peter’s Basilica as they waited for the funeral services to begin.
Officials from both the US and Ukraine reported that the two spoke for about 15 minutes and agreed to further discussions.
Zelenskyy wrote on X afterwards that he and Trump had discussed a lot, including protecting Ukrainians and “a full and unconditional ceasefire” that would lead to lasting peace.
“Very symbolic meeting that has potential to become historic, if we achieve joint results,” Zelenskyy added.
A White House spokesperson also said the discussion was “very productive” and that more details will follow, according to AP.
When he landed in Rome, Trump had written on his social media platform, Truth Social, that Russia and Ukraine were “very close to a deal”.
But following the funeral, Trump then criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin and questioned whether he wants to end the war.
“There was no reason for Putin to be shooting missiles into civilian areas, cities and towns, over the last few days,” he wrote on Truth Social.
“It makes me think that maybe he doesn’t want to stop the war, he’s just tapping me along, and has to be dealt with differently, through ‘Banking’ or ‘Secondary Sanctions?’ Too many people are dying!!!” he added.
Trump’s latest comments are a contrast to his earlier rhetoric, when he tended to criticize Zelenskyy and speak positively about Putin.
Ukraine has accepted a 30-day ceasefire deal after the US agreed to lift its pause on military aid, but Russia has yet to sign the deal.
Sofia Hou
Sofia Hou
