Pope Francis’ funeral drew an immense crowd, with over 250,000 attendees. The event also saw the participation of more than 100 delegations from different nations, as confirmed by the Italian government.
The event was graced by notable world leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his wife, Olena.
The couple was seated in a prominent position, securing a front-row seat in exception to the usual protocols regarding seating arrangements. Matteo Bruni, the director of the Holy See Press Office, explained to The Telegraph that Zelenskyy and his wife were placed in a “vacant spot.”
Zelenskyy attended the funeral in unique attire, choosing a custom military-style field jacket over the traditional dark suit and black tie. His choice of dress was consistent with his wardrobe since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine three years ago. Despite criticism for wearing military clothing in official settings, like his meeting with Donald Trump at the Oval Office, Zelenskyy had a straightforward response: “I will wear a suit after this war finishes.”
Zelenskyy honored Pope Francis even though some Ukrainian officials felt the Vatican could have provided stronger support to Ukraine.
In March 2024, Pope Francis stirred controversy by suggesting that Ukraine should negotiate an end to the conflict, advocating for the “courage to raise the white flag.”
The pope remarked, “The strongest is the one who evaluates the situation, contemplates the people, and courageously waves the white flag, ready to negotiate. When circumstances seem insurmountable and defeat is near, one must find the bravery to negotiate.”
This notion was quickly dismissed by Ukraine, whose Vatican ambassador compared it to conceding to Hitler. Although Zelenskyy later addressed the issue without mentioning the pope specifically, he emphasized that Ukrainians are actively defending life and humanity through their actions, prayers, and conversations.
In response, the Vatican clarified that Pope Francis was speaking metaphorically about achieving negotiation through bravery when he mentioned a “white flag.”
Further controversy ensued in December when Pope Francis referred to Ukraine and Russia as “brothers” during a mass.
Two months before his passing, Pope Francis expressed his sorrow over the “painful and shameful” nature of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
In a heartfelt message, he reiterated, “In solidarity with the suffering Ukrainian people, I urge everyone to remember the victims of all armed conflicts and to pray for peace from Palestine to Israel, throughout the Middle East, Myanmar, Kivu, and Sudan.”
Accusations have been made by Ukraine against the pope, alleging insufficient support and a failure to specifically denounce Russia’s aggression.
An anonymous Ukrainian official expressed to AFP that the Vatican and Pope Francis exhibited “absolute ignorance” regarding their region’s challenges. However, despite this criticism, there was appreciation for the Vatican’s role in negotiating the return of Ukrainian children taken to Russia and aiding in prisoner exchanges.
Zelenskyy mentioned his talks with the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations as a tribute to Pope Francis. He tweeted his condolences as follows:
“I met with members of the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations. Yesterday, we all received the sorrowful news of the passing of Pope Francis. My condolences. We remember his prayers for peace in Ukraine. Our state will be represented in Rome at the farewell… Volodymyr Zelenskyy (@ZelenskyyUa)
In the wake of Pope Francis’ passing, Zelenskyy honored him on behalf of himself and the Ukrainian people.
“With members of the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations, we received the sad news of Pope Francis’ passing and express our condolences. His prayers for peace remain unforgettable,” Zelenskyy noted.
He emphasized that Ukraine will have representation at the farewell ceremony, mindful of the ongoing conflict they face, with the hope that the Easter season may herald an opportunity for genuine ceasefire and lasting peace. Zelenskyy also highlighted the essential support from religious communities and valued “spiritual diplomacy.”
The Ukrainian leader ended his tribute with gratitude: “I thank all the churches and religious organizations for their unwavering support and encouragement during our nation’s difficult times.”
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