In brief
As the world prepares to bid farewell to Pope Francis, leaders from various nations, including some who publicly disagreed with him, are planning to attend the funeral in Rome this Saturday. The event marks an important occasion for global diplomacy and reflection on Francis's impactful legacy.
April 22, 2025, 1:53 p.m. ET — Leaders worldwide are converging on Rome for the funeral of Pope Francis, an event expected to draw a significant turnout among political and royal figures. This gathering comes after nearly a week of mourning for the pope, known for his advocacy on controversial issues such as migration and social justice.Among the notable figures attending is former President Donald Trump, making his first international trip since he took office for a second term. The pope, who frequently criticized leaders regarding policies that impacted the poor and marginalized, had an often contentious but impactful relationship with Trump and others, such as the Argentine President Javier Milei, who previously referred to Francis as a "filthy leftist." Recently, however, Milei's office announced his intention to pay respects to the pope, acknowledging the complex relationship they had.Several other dignitaries will also be present, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Prince William, who will attend on behalf of King Charles III. Starmer praised Francis as a courageous leader dedicated to uplifting those often overlooked by society. This funeral, set to unfold in St. Peter’s Basilica, is anticipated to be the largest congregation of world leaders since Trump's inaugural ceremony, showcasing diverse perspectives in mourning one of history's most progressive popes.
