Zelensky Urges Trump for Stronger Russia Stance at Pope's Funeral

During Pope Francis's funeral at the Vatican, President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a private 15-minute meeting, marking their first face-to-face since a previous heated Oval Office exchange. Zelensky reportedly urged Trump to adopt a tougher stance against Russia and expressed willingness to make concessions for peace in Ukraine, provided there were strong security guarantees. The conversation was notably private, with no aides or translators present, and both leaders described the discussion as productive and potentially historic. Trump appeared to show empathy for Ukraine's suffering and, according to sources, indicated he might reconsider his approach to Russian President Vladimir Putin following the meeting. The solemn setting and informality of the encounter may have contributed to a more cooperative tone than previous interactions. The White House neither confirmed nor denied specifics, but both sides expressed hope for meaningful outcomes.