Zelensky and Trump Connect in Rome Ahead of Pope Francis' Farewell

A pivotal meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former U.S. President Donald Trump in Rome precedes Pope Francis' funeral, hinting at renewed diplomatic efforts concerning the Ukraine crisis.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former U.S. President Donald Trump were spotted together in Rome just before the funeral of Pope Francis, as confirmed by officials from both parties. The White House referred to their discussion as "very productive," remaining tight-lipped on specifics. Attending the ceremony at the Vatican were a constellation of global leaders, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, evoking a rare moment of international unity amidst turmoil.

The meeting comes on the heels of Trump’s statement where he suggested that Russia and Ukraine might be "very close to a deal," following substantial discussions held by his envoy Steve Witkoff with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow the previous Friday. Witkoff's fourth visit of the year resulted in discussions characterized as "very useful," according to Putin aide Yuri Ushakov. The talks not only focused on Ukraine but also on a spectrum of international matters, highlighting crucial openings for renewed dialogue between Russian and Ukrainian representatives.

As Zelensky and Trump set aside their differences during this poignant moment, observers are left wondering whether this meeting could herald a new chapter in the long-standing strife in Eastern Europe.