The Zelensky and Trump meeting inside St Peter’s Basilica has captured worldwide attention, offering a rare moment of optimism in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict. The two leaders met for 15 minutes just before Pope Francis’ funeral began, sharing what the White House described as a “very productive” conversation. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later emphasized the symbolic importance of the meeting, saying it could “become historic” if their dialogue leads to tangible results.
Photos released showed Zelensky and Trump meeting seated opposite each other, deeply engaged in conversation. Trump wore a blue suit, while Zelensky chose a more somber black ensemble, reflecting the gravity of the setting and occasion. Despite their previously turbulent interactions, both leaders appeared determined to find common ground.
Trump had earlier stated that Russia and Ukraine were “very close to a deal,” following discussions between his envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. The announcement set a hopeful tone for the Basilica meeting. Meanwhile, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha echoed the sentiment, declaring the encounter as “historic” and “working for peace.”
Adding to the significance, images captured UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron engaging with Trump and Zelensky, suggesting broader European involvement. Their collective presence during such a solemn event sent a powerful message of unity and diplomacy.
As the funeral service proceeded, Zelensky and Trump meeting attendees found themselves sitting just a few seats apart. This proximity underscored how diplomacy and dialogue can occur even amid the most somber ceremonies. During his homily, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re highlighted Pope Francis’s persistent calls for peace, quoting, “Build bridges, not walls,” a message that seemed tailored for the day’s extraordinary gathering.
Following the service, Trump swiftly departed Rome, while Zelensky held separate meetings with Macron and Sir Keir Starmer. Reports suggest Zelensky also plans discussions with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, indicating Ukraine’s continued push for international support.
The background of the Zelensky and Trump meeting remains complex. In their last face-to-face encounter in February, Trump criticized Zelensky for “gambling with World War Three” by resisting U.S.-led ceasefire proposals. Trump continues to pressure Kyiv to consider territorial concessions, including parts of the Donbas region and Crimea, to secure peace — a stance Zelensky firmly opposes.
Despite these challenges, Zelensky hinted in a recent BBC interview that “a full and unconditional ceasefire opens up the possibility to discuss everything,” subtly suggesting a window for negotiation without sacrificing sovereignty.
Trump’s envoy Witkoff’s latest visit to Moscow further stirred hopes. Russian aide Yuri Ushakov noted that U.S. and Russian positions had moved closer, not just regarding Ukraine but also other international matters. Talks of reopening direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine hint at a potential breakthrough.
Ultimately, the Zelensky and Trump meeting inside St Peter’s Basilica symbolizes more than diplomacy; it symbolizes the enduring hope for peace amidst war. Whether the meeting will lead to a lasting agreement remains uncertain, but the dialogue itself represents a vital step toward resolving one of the world’s most dangerous conflicts
