During the two-hour memorial service for Pope Francis, President Donald Trump was observed making a short remark to his wife, Melania. According to a professional lip reader, Trump leaned in and quietly told Melania, “I’ll go over and speak to him,” although it remains uncertain who he was referring to at that moment. Melania reportedly responded with a subtle sideways glance and did not reply verbally.
The Trumps were among a large gathering of mourners in Vatican City, which included numerous world leaders such as Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Despite initial speculation that they might be seated further back, the couple appeared prominently in televised coverage, with Trump drawing attention in a blue suit that contrasted with the predominantly black attire of other attendees. Melania, a practicing Catholic, wore a black blazer, pencil skirt, and a lace veil.
This event marked the first time Trump and Zelenskyy had been in the same room since a tense exchange at the White House in February. During the funeral, cameras captured Trump and Melania’s brief conversation as the congregation stood midway through the service.
Melania, the first Catholic First Lady since Jacqueline Kennedy, previously expressed deep appreciation for her 2017 meeting with Pope Francis, recalling the occasion as unforgettable and bringing rosary beads for the Pope to bless. Trump, who was raised Presbyterian but now identifies as a non-denominational Christian, explained that his attendance at the funeral was out of respect and noted his strong support among Catholic voters in the last election.