Private talks in Rome ahead of Pope’s funeral mark potential thaw in tense U.S.-Ukraine ties
U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a private meeting in Rome on Saturday, shortly before attending the funeral of Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica. The conversation, described as “very productive” by U.S. officials, focused primarily on achieving a “full and unconditional ceasefire” in the ongoing war with Russia.
Taking to social media platform X, Zelenskyy called the meeting “symbolic” and hinted at the possibility of a turning point in peace efforts.
“Good meeting. 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,” he posted. “Very symbolic meeting that has potential to become historic, if we achieve joint results. Thank you POTUS.”
The dialogue between the two leaders comes amid mounting international calls for peace and follows Pope Francis’ own recent appeal for an end to global armed conflicts, including the war in Ukraine. During an Angelus address on February 23, the Pope described the third anniversary of the conflict as a “painful and shameful occasion for all of humanity.”
This marked the first meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy since a tense Oval Office session earlier this year, during which Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance criticized Zelenskyy over what they perceived as a lack of appreciation for U.S. aid. The encounter also drew media attention when Zelenskyy was scolded by a reporter for not wearing a formal suit.
Despite past frictions, both sides appear optimistic. A White House official noted that the meeting was “very productive,” with further details expected soon.