Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his hope for a complete ceasefire and lasting peace after his meeting with US President Donald Trump at the Vatican, shortly before attending Pope Francis’ funeral.
“Good meeting. We talked a lot individually. We hope for results in everything discussed: protecting the lives of our people, achieving a complete and unconditional ceasefire, and achieving a secure and lasting peace that prevents another war,” Zelensky wrote on his X account (formerly Twitter).
The Ukrainian president described the meeting as “very symbolic” and stressed that it has the potential to “become historic” if “joint results” are achieved. He also especially thanked Trump for the conversation: “Thank you @POTUS,” he concluded his message.
The meeting, held minutes before the funeral Mass in St. Peter’s Square, was confirmed by White House Communications Director Steven Cheung, who described it as “very productive,” though he did not provide further details at this time.
Trump attended the funeral ceremony accompanied by his wife Melania, sitting in the front row next to French President Emmanuel Macron.
