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Pope Francis' Funeral Draws Global Leaders Amid Calls for Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks

As 130 nations gather at St. Peter’s Basilica, Zelenskyy weighs attendance due to military priorities, and Trump’s envoy advances ceasefire discussions in Moscow.

CORRECTS DATE TO APRIL 25 - President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump arrive on Air Force One at Rome's Leonardo da Vinci International airport in Fiumicino, Friday, April 25, 2025, to attend the funeral for Pope Francis at the Vatican. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber)
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Overview

  • Pope Francis' state funeral is underway at St. Peter’s Basilica, with delegations from about 130 countries, including over 50 heads of state and 10 monarchs, in attendance.
  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remains uncertain about attending the funeral, citing critical military meetings in Kyiv following a deadly Russian missile strike.
  • President Donald Trump, attending the funeral, has refrained from bilateral meetings during the service, calling them disrespectful in the context of the solemn occasion.
  • Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, with Trump stating that both sides are close to a potential deal to end the Ukraine war.
  • The funeral underscores Pope Francis' legacy, including his public disagreements with Trump on issues like immigration, as leaders navigate diplomatic opportunities at the event.