Zelensky, Trump to Meet Again—Details Emerge

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump are scheduled to meet again Saturday in Rome, following an initial, reportedly “constructive” fifteen-minute conversation held during Pope Francis’ funeral events. According to Serhiy Nykyforov, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian President, the two leaders agreed to extend their discussions, and their respective teams are currently coordinating a follow-up meeting. Photos released by the Ukrainian presidency depict the brief exchange between Zelensky and Trump, as well as a larger discussion including French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

This second meeting is notable, given the complex and often strained relationship between Zelensky and Trump, particularly during Trump’s presidency and the withholding of military aid to Ukraine. While details of the initial conversation remain scarce, the agreement to continue talks suggests a potential, albeit cautious, opening for dialogue. The setting – alongside a globally significant event like a papal funeral – is unusual and likely chosen to provide a degree of neutrality and limit public scrutiny. It remains to be seen whether this renewed contact will translate into any substantive progress on issues critical to Ukraine, especially given the ongoing conflict and the shifting geopolitical landscape. The fact that these discussions are happening at all, however, represents a potentially significant development.