US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a surprise meeting in St. Peter's Basilica before Pope Francis' funeral. This was their first face-to-face encounter since a contentious White House meeting in February. The meeting, lasting approximately 15 minutes, focused on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and potential peace negotiations.
Zelensky expressed optimism about the meeting, hoping for progress on a ceasefire and lasting peace. Trump later raised concerns about Putin's intentions, questioning whether he genuinely desires peace after recent missile strikes on civilian areas. Both sides agreed to continue their discussions.
Prior to the meeting, Trump expressed his belief that Russia and Ukraine were close to a deal. His special envoy, Steve Witkoff, held constructive talks with Vladimir Putin. Zelensky also shared details of “constructive” proposals developed in London, aimed at a complete and unconditional ceasefire, monitored by the US and other countries. These proposals included robust security guarantees for Ukraine but omitted specifics on Crimea.
Zelensky rejected the idea of recognizing Crimea as part of Russia, while Trump suggested that Ukraine lacked sufficient weaponry to reclaim Crimea through force. Putin, meanwhile, claimed that Russia regained control of the Kursk border region, a claim that Kyiv has not yet addressed. The article concludes with the uncertain status of ongoing negotiations.