The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, intends to discuss matters with U.S. President Donald Trump during the funeral of Pope Francis, which will take place on April 26. A representative of the European Commission reported this possibility, noting that while no meeting is currently scheduled, any opportunity to engage with important global leaders will be thoroughly utilized.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Opportunity for Informal Meetings During the Funeral
The funeral of Pope Francis presents a rare occasion for leaders of world states to meet in an informal setting. Heads of state and high-ranking officials from around the world are expected to attend this ceremony on April 26. A meeting with Trump has not yet been officially planned, but according to the European Commission representative, it could become possible.
“Any opportunity to speak with key global leaders will be taken.”
Since Trump’s return to the White House earlier this year, he has not met with von der Leyen. At the same time, Trump stated that he would hold “many meetings” during his stay in Rome, which opens potential opportunities for informal contacts.
Role of Ukrainian Leaders and Possible Negotiations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed a desire to have the opportunity to speak with Trump in the corridors of the funeral. Former National Security Advisor to Donald Trump, John Bolton, also suggested that Zelensky should try to meet with the former U.S. president. He mentioned this in an interview with the publication “Babel.”
The funeral is expected to serve as a unique platform for informal meetings and discussions on important international issues among world leaders.