The two discussed enhancing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities and maintaining strong pressure on Russia. Zelenskyy emphasized their shared support for a 30-day ceasefire as a meaningful first step toward achieving peace.

He noted Trump’s strong stance on sanctions, although specific details were not disclosed. The Ukrainian president also praised a new bilateral agreement on critical minerals, signed earlier in the week, as a significant step forward. The deal is expected to strengthen both Ukraine’s economy and its ability to protect future international investments.

Under the agreement, the U.S. will have priority access to Ukrainian mineral resources, facilitating increased American investment in Ukraine’s reconstruction. Zelenskyy assured that initial funds will be reinvested locally to support infrastructure and economic growth. A joint supervisory board, with equal representation from both countries, will oversee the fund and select its leadership.

On the security front, Zelenskyy reiterated the importance of modern air defense systems and expressed optimism that the U.S. would provide further support in this area. He also discussed the potential for $30 billion in U.S. military aid to be delivered over 2025 and 2026, hinting that some of this support might be expedited as part of the broader minerals initiative.

Zelenskyy described the agreement as historic, marking a significant opening for U.S. engagement in the Ukrainian market. The announcement comes as Ukraine continues to advocate for a long-term ceasefire. While a brief truce was proposed around May 9, Zelenskyy reaffirmed Ukraine’s preference for a longer 30-day cessation of hostilities.

He concluded by noting that while Ukraine cannot ensure the safety of foreign dignitaries in Russia, the country remains committed to peace and dialogue, even under challenging circumstances.

The two leaders, seated closely and without aides, met for the first time since a tense exchange in the White House earlier this year. The Vatican setting underscored the symbolic nature of the meeting, as Pope Francis had consistently called for peace in Ukraine throughout his papacy.

Following the funeral, Trump departed Rome and posted a message on social media condemning recent Russian missile strikes on Ukrainian cities, suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin may not genuinely want peace. He floated the idea of further economic measures, such as secondary sanctions, to pressure Moscow. These remarks came just a day after he had expressed optimism about the possibility of a peace deal.

Trump’s shifting tone comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts. While he has called for swift negotiations and proposed a temporary ceasefire, Ukraine and its European allies remain wary of key elements in the proposed U.S. plan, including potential recognition of Crimea as Russian territory and the timeline for lifting sanctions.

Zelenskyy reiterated his stance that any peace must include a full and unconditional ceasefire, meaningful security guarantees, and a path to lasting peace. He has also urged increased international pressure on Moscow to make serious concessions.

Despite their differences—highlighted by past public criticisms and disagreements over Ukraine’s strategy—both Trump and Zelenskyy appear to recognize the need for cooperation to end the conflict. Their brief meeting in the Vatican may signal a shift in tone and a possible opening for further talks.

Zelenskyy also held separate discussions with other world leaders attending the funeral, including the British and French leaders and the European Commission President.

Putin did not attend the event and remains under an international arrest warrant for alleged war crimes. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials suggest further diplomatic developments may be on the horizon, as they continue to push for an immediate ceasefire and long-term peace framework.