Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy has said a conversation with President Trump during the funeral of Pope Francis restored their relationship.
Communication between the two men had broken down in front of the eyes of the world during a meeting in the Oval Office in February 2025. Zelenskyy was ordered to leave the White House and the Trump administration suspended the provision of intelligence and military aid to Ukraine for around a week. Trump accused Zelenskyy of “overplaying his hand” and wanting to continue the war.
After a frosty few weeks, the leaders met again in April 2025 for the funeral of Pope Francis at St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican. They were seen sitting face to face in deep discussion.
In an interview with US activist Laura Loomer, President Zelenskyy described the meeting as “historic” saying: “You are right, the tone has changed – absolutely. We had our first changing moment in Rome, at the Vatican. Yes, it was not a long meeting, but I always said that I think it was a historic moment, because we changed the relationship in 15, 20 minutes. I'm so happy, because a lot of lives depend on such relations and dialogue”.
He said he would not disclose the details of the conversation.
It’s understood the two Presidents will meet in Washington again next week as efforts continue to try to end the Ukraine Russia conflict.
Pope Francis died on 21 April 2025 at the age of 88.