Trump, Zelenskyy Discuss Peace Talks Ahead of Pope's Funeral

President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met privately in Rome ahead of Pope Francis' funeral, marking their first encounter since a tense White House meeting earlier in the year. Both sides described the discussion as 'very productive,' though specific details about the talks were not disclosed. Trump has recently asserted that Ukraine and Russia are 'very close to a deal,' urging Zelenskyy to finalize a peace agreement and offering to help facilitate an end to the war. The meeting comes amid heightened diplomatic activity, with U.S. and Russian emissaries also engaging in dialogue, and Trump publicly pressuring Zelenskyy to make concessions for peace. Tensions remain high, as Trump has criticized Zelenskyy for the ongoing conflict while also condemning recent Russian attacks on Kyiv. Both leaders reportedly agreed to continue further talks in the future.