**Trump Signals Doubts on Putin’s Peace Intentions Following Zelensky Meeting**

Trump expresses concern that Russia's recent strikes on Ukraine indicate Putin's reluctance to cease hostilities, despite diplomatic dialogues.

In a revealing encounter amidst the backdrop of Pope Francis' funeral, former U.S. President Donald Trump has cast doubt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's genuine intent for peace in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Following a classified meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Vatican, Trump took to social media, voicing apprehensions about Putin's demeanor and accusing the Russian leader of "tapping me along" while attacking civilian areas in Kyiv.

The brief, yet significant 15-minute exchange occurred shortly before the funeral ceremony, marking Trump’s first in-person engagement with Zelensky since their contentious meeting in the Oval Office earlier this year. The White House characterized the meeting as "very productive," and Zelensky hailed it as potentially "historic."

Post-meeting, Trump expressed skepticism regarding the advancements in peace talks, stating the latest Russian military actions made him question whether Putin was serious about seeking a cessation of hostilities, suggesting alternative methods for dealing with Russia might be necessary. Trump has a history of critiquing both Putin's and Zelensky's strategies, suggesting that Zelensky lacks leverage in negotiations.

The meeting was underscored by support from European leaders, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, who engage with both leaders to foster dialogue amid the turbulent backdrop of the funeral.

During the ceremony, the importance of reconciliation echoed in the homily of Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, as he reiterated Pope Francis’s longstanding advocacy for peace. Although further discussions between Trump and Zelensky were anticipated, Trump departed Rome swiftly, leaving Zelensky to engage in separate talks with Macron and Starmer about the potential for a renewed ceasefire and necessary conditions for lasting peace.

Zelensky's resistance to territory concessions, despite pressure from Trump, highlights the complexities of the ongoing negotiations. Nonetheless, the recent engagements suggest a desire from the involved parties to seek avenues for resolution, even as doubts linger over the sincerity of peace efforts.