Zelenskyy, Trump Discuss Air Defense and Sanctions in Vatican Meeting

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he had his “best meeting yet” with Donald Trump last week, during an unexpected conversation on the sidelines of Pope Francis’ funeral at the Vatican. The two leaders discussed air defense systems, sanctions on Russia, and a temporary ceasefire aimed at easing tensions in the ongoing war.

According to a statement from Zelenskyy’s office, both leaders agreed that a 30-day ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia would be a logical first step toward ending the conflict. Zelenskyy also said Trump expressed strong support for tougher sanctions on Moscow, though no specific details were provided.

In addition to military and diplomatic issues, the two leaders highlighted a new critical minerals agreement signed earlier in the week. The deal, promoted by Trump, grants the U.S. preferential access to Ukraine’s mineral resources and opens the door to U.S. investment in Ukraine’s reconstruction.

Zelenskyy described the agreement as a win for both sides. He emphasized that the funds would be reinvested in Ukraine rather than immediately leaving the country. “Only if the parties then, in the future, agree that in 20 years the fund is fine… there is production,” he said, suggesting long-term benefits were the goal.

The meeting marks a rare show of alignment between the two presidents, as Ukraine continues to seek military and economic support from key allies amid the ongoing Russian invasion.