Pope Francis’ funeral may have been impacted by tensions between the US and France over the Russian-Ukrainian crisis, since the French leader seemed to ignore Donald Trump.
Trump and Macron’s Awkward Encounter Overshadowed by Tensions at Pope’s Funeral
Before attending the funeral liturgy honoring Pope Francis, President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a bid to advance peace talks with Russia. French President Emmanuel Macron also met with Zelensky earlier that day, warmly greeting him and holding his hand during their exchange.
However, an awkward moment unfolded between Trump and Macron. As Trump reached out for what appeared to be a handshake, Macron hesitated. Footage showed Macron’s hands lingering near Trump’s forearm without firmly returning the gesture, and neither leader made eye contact. The scene fueled speculation that Macron was deliberately distancing himself from Trump, in stark contrast to his affectionate exchange with Zelensky.
Despite the tension, the two leaders later shared a more traditional sign of peace—briefly holding hands—during the Mass, reportedly at Melania Trump’s encouragement. Still, the coolness between Trump and Macron reflects the growing rift in U.S.-French relations, particularly over how to manage the war in Ukraine and the levels of aid provided.
Earlier this year, at a White House press conference, Macron publicly corrected Trump’s comments about European support for Ukraine and cautioned him against conceding to Russian demands. Once known for their “bromance,” with photos of them smiling and hand-in-hand in the White House Rose Garden, the relationship between Trump and Macron has visibly deteriorated.
Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President JD Vance caused controversy during a February meeting with Zelensky by criticizing the Ukrainian leader for appearing ungrateful toward American support. Despite past tensions, Zelensky and Trump seemed to reconcile during their private Vatican meeting. Zelensky later posted on social media, calling it a “good meeting” and expressing hope for “historic” results.
Protocol Missteps at the Vatican
At Pope Francis’s funeral, several high-profile attendees drew criticism for ignoring traditional Catholic funeral protocols. President Trump wore a bright blue suit instead of the expected dark attire. President Biden also stood out with a blue tie, rather than the traditional black. French First Lady Brigitte Macron broke protocol by choosing not to cover her head.
Traditionally, women attending a papal funeral are expected to wear a black dress or suit below the knee along with a black head covering. Melania Trump, Spain’s Queen Letizia, former U.S. First Lady Jill Biden, and Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit all followed the dress code. However, Brigitte Macron opted for a black turtleneck, a double-breasted blazer, a long pleated skirt—and no head covering, styling her blond hair in a voluminous bouffant.
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Ukraine’s First Lady Olena Zelenska also skipped the black veil, although Meloni wore a modest black pantsuit.
The minor breaches in traditional protocol, combined with the undercurrents of diplomatic tension, underscored how even solemn occasions like a papal funeral can expose global political divisions.
