DIVINE INTERVENTION; Trump and Zelenskyy's relationship seems to thaw as Russia turns up the heat on battlefield

Trump also voiced disappointment over Russia’s continued airstrikes on Ukraine.

PUBLISHED APR 28, 2025

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky (R) meets with U.S. President Donald Trump (L) during Pope Francis's funeral at St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican.

Washington D.C.: President Donald Trump has expressed sympathy for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after their iconic meeting at the Vatican during Pope Francis's funeral.

Speaking to reporters in New Jersey on Sunday, Trump acknowledged Zelenskyy’s efforts, stating, “He wants to do something good for his country” and “is working hard".

Reflecting on their discussion in what he called a “beautiful” setting, Trump also voiced disappointment over Russia’s continued airstrikes on Ukraine despite recent diplomatic talks. “I was very disappointed that missiles were flying, by Russia,” he said, referencing discussions between Vladimir Putin and Trump’s peace envoy, Steve Witkoff.

Body language expert Judi James analyzed the huddle involving Trump, Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

When pressed on his expectations for Putin, Trump said, “I want him to stop shooting. Sit down and sign the deal.” However, he remained vague about his trust in the Russian leader, stating, “I’ll let you know in about two weeks.”

The Vatican meeting appeared to ease tensions between Trump and Zelenskyy, with the US president noting, “It was never bad. We had a little dispute… but he’s in a tough situation.” Trump described Zelenskyy as “calmer” compared to their previous Oval Office encounter, suggesting the Ukrainian leader now “understands the picture” and wants a resolution.

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However, body language expert Judi James, writing in the Daily Mail, analyzed the huddle involving Trump, Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Macron’s firm handshake with Zelenskyy appeared to signal solidarity, leaving Trump momentarily sidelined before he reasserted himself with a shoulder touch — a move James called a “touch ritual".

Lip reader Nicola Hickling suggested Trump told the pair, “Slow down… you should not be here,” while Zelenskyy remained visibly tense.

Starmer’s closed-off posture — arms bent like a “T-Rex” — hinted at discomfort, with James speculating he felt “leadership FOMO” (fear of missing out) in the high-stakes interaction.