Donald Trump has arrived in Rome to attend the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025. The former U.S. president's visit is marked by a tight schedule, as he is expected to spend just over 15 hours in the Italian capital.
Air Force One landed at Fiumicino Airport at 22:55 local time on April 25, 2025, after departing from Andrews Air Force Base at 15:31 Italian time with a 40-minute delay. Upon arrival, Trump expressed his intention to "pay homage" to the late pontiff, stating, "He really loved the world and was a good Christian. I think he was a fantastic person," recalling that he had met Pope Francis twice.
During his brief stay, Trump will meet with several foreign leaders, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. However, there is no official meeting scheduled between them. Trump hinted at the possibility of unexpected encounters, saying, "There will be many leaders, and they want to meet to talk about trade." His agenda also leaves room for a potential last-minute meeting with Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, although this remains unconfirmed.
While in Rome, Trump will be accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump and a delegation that includes National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and several key staff members. After settling at Villa Taverna, the residence of the American ambassador in Rome, Trump and Melania are scheduled to arrive at St. Peter's Basilica around 9:30 AM on April 26, 2025, for the funeral, which is set to begin at 10:00 AM.
Following the ceremony, Trump and his wife will leave the Vatican at 12:50 PM and are expected to depart from Fiumicino at 13:30, heading back to Newark Airport. Trump is also set to return to the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey, by 17:40 local time.
Amidst the solemnity of the occasion, Trump's visit is not without its political undertones. He has been vocal about trade discussions, particularly regarding tariffs with China. In an interview with Time, Trump mentioned having spoken with Chinese President Xi Jinping, hinting at the possibility of a trade agreement in the coming weeks, a claim that has been denied by Beijing. He stated, "There is a figure that will make them feel comfortable, but you can't let them make a thousand billion dollars off our backs."
Trump's comments about tariffs reflect his broader strategy, as he claimed to have completed "200 agreements" on tariffs, though none have been publicly announced yet. He compared the U.S. to a large store setting prices for those who wish to buy from it, emphasizing the need for America to maintain a strong position in international trade.
As the funeral approaches, world leaders are arriving in Rome to pay their respects. Approximately 50 heads of state and government are expected to attend, along with ten sovereigns. Among them are French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, both of whom have also indicated their desire to engage in discussions during their time in Rome.
However, the atmosphere is primarily one of mourning, with many leaders, including Macron, stating that this is not the time for political meetings or discussions about tariffs. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani echoed this sentiment, suggesting that organizing an international summit during the Pope's funeral would be complicated and inappropriate. He remarked, "It would be a lack of respect to the Holy Father on the day of his funeral."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also indicated that he may not attend the funeral due to important military meetings. He stated, "If I am not present in time, Ukraine will be represented at an adequate level. The First Lady and the Foreign Minister will be present." This uncertainty highlights the ongoing tensions in Ukraine amid the Russian invasion, which continues to dominate global headlines.
As the day of the funeral unfolds, the focus remains on honoring Pope Francis's legacy, with leaders from around the world gathering to pay their respects. The event serves as a reminder of the significant role the Pope played in fostering dialogue and promoting peace during his tenure.
In the midst of this solemn gathering, Trump's presence adds a layer of political complexity. His brief visit, marked by potential meetings and discussions, reflects the intersection of faith and politics that often accompanies such significant events.
As the world watches, the funeral of Pope Francis stands as a moment of reflection, unity, and perhaps even a catalyst for future discussions on pressing global issues.
