During Pope Francis’ burial in Rome, President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met in private inside St. Peter’s Basilica in a stunning scene amidst mournful ceremonies. Attending the historic ceremony together, the two leaders paused for a brief one-on-one conversation that all parties characterized as “productive” and “symbolic.”

The discussion centered on efforts to secure a sustainable peace, protect civilian lives, and attain a complete and unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine, according to a statement released by Zelensky. Zelensky underlined the significance of the meeting, describing it as a chance to “avoid another war from breaking out” and stressing how it may provide concrete outcomes for their respective countries.