Trump and Zelensky hold 'productive' talks in Rome.

Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky met briefly yesterday before the funeral for Pope Francis, as the US leader stepped up the pressure to end Russia's war against Ukraine.

- MILLIE COOKE

The White House said their discussion was “very productive” and that more details would be released later. The meeting lasted about 15 minutes inside St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican just before they took their seats for the outdoor funeral service. The Ukrainian president described the meeting as potentially historic after the pair discussed the future of Ukraine.

Posting to X, Mr Zelensky hailed a “good meeting” with Mr Trump, adding: “We discussed a lot one on one. Hoping for results on everything we covered. Protecting lives of our people. Full and unconditional ceasefire. Reliable and lasting peace that will prevent another war from breaking out. Very symbolic meeting that has potential to become historic, if we achieve joint results.”

The meeting was the first time the two leaders have met face-toface since their disastrous Oval Office meeting in February.