Folks are talking about the contrasting receptions Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy received during Pope Francis’ funeral. It seems that the difference was quite noticeable.
On a solemn Saturday in Rome, leaders from all over the world gathered to pay their final respects to Pope Francis. Among them were prominent figures like Trump, Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron, and UK’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Trump made his entrance with his wife, Melania, joining the company of Starmer, Zelenskyy, and even Prince William. However, what really caught people’s attention was how differently these leaders were welcomed.
Video clips circulating on social media showed Zelenskyy receiving a warm applause from the audience. On the other hand, Trump’s arrival didn’t prompt the same response.
“Zelensky received spontaneous applause, but Trump in his blue suit got none,” noted the caption of one popular video.
In the comments section, many chimed in with their thoughts. One individual noted, “That’s quite a loud applause for #Zelenskyy—definitely more than just a few claps.”
Another pointed out the importance of the gesture, saying, “In these trying times with all the turmoil, it’s truly heartening to see Europe recognizing Zelenskyy as a respected leader.”
Trump’s choice of attire didn’t go unnoticed, with many thinking his blue suit was inappropriate for the occasion, given that black is traditionally worn to funerals.
An observer remarked, “While Zelenskyy was getting spontaneous applause, Trump, even dressed in blue, didn’t get a response,” further emphasizing the stark contrast between the two receptions.
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The gathering in Rome also marked the first meeting between Zelenskyy and Trump since their much-publicized confrontation at the White House earlier this year.
A source quoted by Sky News mentioned that both leaders had a ‘very productive discussion’ following their attendance at the service.
This meeting came on the heels of Trump suggesting that a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia was “very close.” He even encouraged Zelenskyy to finalize it, expressing his optimism on his social media platform, Truth Social.
“We are very near a deal. But the man who holds no cards should now seal the deal,” he commented, adding, “I’m eager to help Ukraine and Russia escape this ongoing nightmare that would never have occurred if I were president!”
Before his departure from Washington, Trump fondly remembered Pope Francis, saying, “Francis was cherished worldwide, actually. He was an exemplary gentleman. A truly admirable man.”
Besides honoring the Pope, Trump acknowledged the funeral as an opportunity to ‘interact with numerous global leaders.’
During a conversation with MSNBC, Trump mentioned, “It’s expected to be intriguing. We’ll be meeting plenty of foreign leaders; they’re keen to gather.”
He also shared updates on international dealings, noting, “Trade arrangements are advancing nicely. Regarding Russia and Ukraine, we’re seeing hopeful but delicate progress.”
Turning his attention to geopolitics, he said, “Iran is moving positively. Let’s see how things unfold. Our plate is full.
