Trump, Zelensky Meet at Pope Francis Funeral

At the funeral of Pope Francis in Rome, U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a significant one-on-one meeting, marking their first in-person encounter since a tense Oval Office exchange earlier in the year. Both leaders described the meeting as productive and emphasized discussions on a full and unconditional ceasefire, civilian protection, and the prospect of lasting peace in Ukraine. Trump criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for ongoing attacks on civilians and suggested new sanctions might be necessary, expressing doubt about Putin's willingness to end the war. The meeting, held before the funeral, was seen as a symbolic move in ongoing peace efforts. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron also met with Zelensky at the event, reaffirming their commitment to supporting peace negotiations. Diplomatic pressure on Ukraine to consider difficult concessions remains, but Zelensky continues to stand firm on issues like Crimea.