Ukraine and the United States are set to sign a minerals deal as early as February 28, 2025, during President Volodymyr Zelensky’s anticipated trip to Washington, both countries confirmed. Kyiv views the deal as a potential step toward securing future security guarantees from Washington.
Meanwhile, in a historic and symbolic moment, Zelensky and US President Donald Trump met briefly at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome on Saturday, during the funeral of Pope Francis. It marked their first encounter since a tense White House meeting earlier this year. Discussions focused on achieving an unconditional ceasefire with Russia, which Zelensky described as potentially “historic” for securing peace.
The solemn setting of the pope’s funeral was overshadowed by ongoing conflict developments, with Russia claiming it had fully captured the Kursk border region — a claim Ukraine disputed, asserting that fighting continues.
The two leaders were seen in deep conversation inside the basilica before the funeral began. Zelensky posted that they discussed protecting Ukrainian lives, securing a lasting peace, and preventing future wars.
Though the meeting was brief, it was described as constructive by Ukrainian officials and a “very productive discussion” by the White House. Trump, however, departed Rome immediately after the funeral without further talks.
Trump and Zelensky also briefly interacted with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron. Macron later held a separate meeting with Zelensky.
The gathering highlighted ongoing tensions between Trump and Zelensky, especially after a heated Oval Office meeting where Trump criticized Zelensky for what he called ingratitude regarding US military aid. Trump has also suggested Ukraine may have to accept concessions like recognizing Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea — a proposal Zelensky has firmly rejected.
Trump claimed the two sides are “very close to a deal” and called for high-level talks to “finish it off,” signaling urgency to end the war.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly discussed possible direct talks with Ukraine during a meeting with US envoy Steve Witkoff.
As diplomatic maneuvering continued, the funeral drew over 50 heads of state and 10 monarchs, but Trump notably did not meet former President Joe Biden, who attended separately.
