Amid solemn tributes during Pope Francis' funeral at the Vatican, U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a "very productive" meeting in Rome, according to a White House official. The leaders discussed potential pathways to a ceasefire, marking a crucial diplomatic moment as the conflict between Ukraine and Russia escalates.

The 15-minute conversation took place inside St. Peter’s Basilica, where world leaders and dignitaries had gathered to honor the late pontiff. Ukrainian presidential spokesman Serhii Nykyforov confirmed that negotiations would continue later on Saturday. Steven Cheung, White House Communications Director, also verified the encounter.

This high-profile meeting came shortly after Trump advocated on social media for "very high-level talks" between Ukraine and Russia to end the three-year war that began with Russia’s invasion. Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, had already met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday. Trump expressed optimism, stating that the warring sides were "very close to a deal."

Meanwhile, the conflict showed no signs of slowing down. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced Saturday that all Ukrainian forces had been expelled from Russia's Kursk region. Russian military officials also revealed that North Korean troops had fought alongside Russian forces in recent battles, highlighting the complex international dynamics at play.

Despite Moscow’s claims of victory, Kyiv has not commented officially. Ukrainian forces had initially surprised Russia in August 2024 by seizing 1,300 square kilometers of Russian territory. However, those gains have been steadily reversed over the past months.

Adding to the turmoil, Russian air strikes overnight killed three civilians and injured several others across Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities reported that Russia launched three missiles and over 100 drones, 66 of which were intercepted by Ukrainian defenses. Meanwhile, Russia claimed to have downed 45 Ukrainian drones overnight.

The Trump-Zelenskyy meeting comes at a pivotal time, as diplomatic efforts seek to address the humanitarian crisis and the strategic stalemate on the battlefield. Although no formal ceasefire was announced after their discussion, both sides expressed a commitment to further dialogue.

For now, the world watches closely as diplomatic talks unfold amidst the backdrop of a Europe reshaped by war and the symbolic farewell to a pope who championed peace and unity.