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In a notable occurrence at the Vatican, U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy convened within St. Peter’s Basilica on April 26, preceding the funeral Mass for Pope Francis. Metropolitan Borys A. Gudziak of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia, present in St. Peter’s Square, heard applause as President Zelenskyy entered the area.
Archbishop Gudziak reflected on the event, describing it as a “gift” from Pope Francis. He remarked, “Pope Francis is giving a gift” to the world, which he described as related to peace prospects.
The meeting marked the leaders’ first personal interaction since a tense Oval Office meeting in February. Amid ongoing pressure from President Trump on Zelenskyy to agree to a peace deal allowing Russian retention of seized Ukrainian territory, the Vatican meeting held significance.
“The circumstances should not be underestimated,” Archbishop Gudziak emphasized. The setting of the meeting was noted as being both inspired and solemn, first in the Basilica and later in the piazza.
Archbishop Gudziak added, “What is noteworthy is that they sat down and both the photographs and initial reports indicate that there was an encounter, there was a meeting — the first after the ruptured rendezvous at the White House in February.”
The archbishop also commented on Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s negotiating position amidst “fundamentally devious” dialogue from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Zelenskyy, representing Ukraine, faces challenges negotiating a just peace under these circumstances.
The meeting highlights the reopening of communication channels between Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy. “It is good that the channels of communications on a personal level between Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy have reopened,” Archbishop Gudziak said. He inferred that President Trump is starting to realize Putin's lack of interest in peace.
Archbishop Gudziak elaborated on past conversations with Pope Francis, reflecting on the Pope's engagement with Ukraine-related issues. The archbishop said Pope Francis contacted the faithful over 350 times to advocate prayers for Ukraine over the past three years, though some Ukrainians found some of his comments ambiguous.
Archbishop Gudziak recounted his personal meeting with Pope Francis in 2022, appreciating the Pope’s humility and willingness to listen. The Pope acknowledged, “I’m a sinner. In other words, I make mistakes,” which resonated with many Ukrainians.
In conclusion, following Pope Francis’ passing, Archbishop Gudziak stated, “We pray for a sinner who loved us very much,” highlighting the connection between the Pope’s recognition of his faults and his love for the Ukrainian people and his Gospel joy as a lasting legacy.
