Former U.S. President Donald Trump met privately with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy today ahead of Pope Francis’ funeral ceremonies in Vatican City.

The unexpected meeting between the two leaders took place at a secured location near St. Peter’s Basilica, according to officials familiar with the matter.

A joint statement described the conversation as “very productive,” emphasizing that both leaders discussed pressing global issues, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and broader European security concerns.

Sources close to the meeting said Trump expressed his desire to see a “swift and just resolution” to the conflict, while Zelenskyy reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to defending its sovereignty.

It remains unclear whether any specific agreements or proposals emerged from their conversation.

Trump praised Zelenskyy’s leadership, calling him “a strong and courageous leader under very difficult circumstances.”

The meeting comes at a time of growing international attention on Ukraine’s struggle against Russian aggression, with many Western leaders reaffirming support for Kyiv.

Trump, who is seeking re-election, has previously stated that he could “end the war quickly,” though he has not provided detailed plans for how he would do so.

Zelenskyy has repeatedly stressed the importance of continued Western support to secure Ukraine’s territorial integrity and resist Russian advances.

Today’s meeting was notable given Trump’s past criticisms of extensive U.S. military aid to Ukraine during President Biden’s administration.

Officials say the tone of the discussion was respectful and focused on areas of potential cooperation rather than points of disagreement.

Both leaders agreed to keep communication channels open in the coming months as global dynamics continue to shift.

Neither Trump’s nor Zelenskyy’s office immediately offered further details about the private meeting, citing the sensitive nature of the discussions.

The funeral of Pope Francis, scheduled for tomorrow, has drawn a significant gathering of world leaders and dignitaries from across the globe.