Zelensky and Vance reconcile at Pope's inauguration
Volodymyr Zelensky and J.D. Vance haven't been on the best terms since a meeting in February 2025 at the White House. The President of Ukraine and the Vice President of the United States encountered each other again during the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, where they managed to exchange friendly gestures captured by cameras.
The inauguration of Pope Leo XIV is the day's most significant international event, drawing over 150,000 attendees. Among them were many heads of state and key political figures. Representatives from the United States and Ukraine were also present.
Volodymyr Zelensky and J.D. Vance appeared in Rome. Both had been at odds since a February 2025 meeting. They reportedly had a disagreement in front of the cameras at that time.
Zelensky attempted to persuade the Vice President that Ukraine is the sole victim of the ongoing war with Russia. In contrast, Vance criticized Zelensky for what he perceived as insufficient willingness to negotiate with the Russians.
Today (May 18th), the two politicians met once more. Their greeting suggested that neither harbored lingering resentment. Vance and Zelensky warmly shook hands, and online images and videos show the leaders even exchanged smiles.
The warming of relations between Vance and Zelensky could be influenced by Donald Trump's recent policy shift toward Russia. The President of the United States has increasingly expressed impatience with Vladimir Putin due to his reluctance to engage in substantial peace talks and establish a ceasefire.
