Ukraine peace talks: Trump and Zelenskyy meet at Vatican

VATICAN: Pope Francis was one of the strongest voices in the world against war. Until the very last moment, he had called for peace in Gaza, Ukraine, and other regions. Yesterday, alongside the final rites for Pope Francis, the world also witnessed a crucial meeting held at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.

It was a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Before the funeral ceremonies began, the two leaders held face-to-face discussions inside the Basilica. Following the talks, responses from both countries suggested positive signals for mediatory efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

Zelenskyy remarked that his meeting with Trump could be historic. Before the meeting, Trump had stated that negotiations with Russia and Ukraine were at a decisive stage and that a peace agreement was within reach. Trump also indicated hope that a ceasefire in Ukraine could be agreed upon within the coming days.

During discussions at the White House back in February, a verbal spat had erupted between Trump and Zelenskyy over the issue of ending the war, creating controversy. This meeting marked the first time the two leaders had engaged directly since then. Zelenskyy also held discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Russia had launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and currently, about 20% of Ukraine's territory remains under Russian control.

Trump criticizes Putin

After attending Pope Francis's funeral, Trump returned to the U.S. and criticised Russian President Vladimir Putin through social media. Trump accused Putin of indiscriminately launching missiles into civilian areas and cities in Ukraine over the past few days without any justification.