Melania Stuns, Trump Stumbles at the Pope's Funeral
Official 2025 inaugural portrait of Donald Trump. Photo by Daniel Torok. Public domain.
Donald Trump couldn't just blend in at Pope Francis' funeral — he became the spectacle. From a flashy blue suit to an awkward moment caught on camera, and even a thinly veiled rebuke from the pulpit, Trump's appearance at the Vatican was anything but ordinary.
Trump's Bold Fashion Move
While nearly every other world leader wore traditional black, Trump arrived in a bright blue suit, immediately standing out from the sea of mourners. Some online critics and commentators quickly labeled the outfit choice as disrespectful, while supporters argued he stayed true to his personal style.
Melania Trump, on the other hand, chose a black double-breasted coat dress with a black lace veil and gloves, adhering to Vatican tradition and drawing comparisons to Jackie Kennedy.
Distracted in the Front Row
Seated in the front row alongside dozens of world leaders, Trump was spotted looking at his phone during the Mass. His apparent distraction sparked a wave of online criticism, with many questioning his sense of occasion.
Meanwhile, Melania sat quietly and attentively. Observers noted a brief exchange between the couple, with Trump suggesting he might approach another leader, an idea Melania appeared to silently dismiss with a look.
Subtle Criticism From the Pulpit
During the homily, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re recalled Pope Francis' message to "build bridges, not walls" — a sentiment that many interpreted as a subtle jab at Trump's border wall policy, as reported by The Daily Beast. Given the long-standing public tension between Trump and Pope Francis, few missed the significance of the phrasing.
Did Trump and Biden Share a Ride?
Despite their shared destination, Trump and former President Joe Biden did not travel together. Biden and First Lady Jill Biden were seated several rows behind the Trumps, and there were no reports of any personal interaction or shared transportation.
Given the political animosity between the two administrations, the chilly distance surprised few.
What the World Is Saying
Reaction to Trump's appearance at the funeral was divided. Supporters brushed off the blue suit and the phone usage as overblown controversies, while critics saw it as another example of Trump defying tradition and decorum.
Trump's brief sit-down with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky before the Mass also garnered attention. The White House confirmed plans for a follow-up meeting, raising hopes that discussions could lead to progress on peace talks between Ukraine and Russia.
Final Thoughts
Trump's appearance at Pope Francis' funeral was a reminder that wherever he goes, attention follows. His attire, his actions, and even the words spoken at the pulpit fueled conversation long after the service ended.
As always, the world will have to wait and see if these moments have a lasting impact — or simply fade into another chapter of the Trump show.
References: Everything 'Despicable' Donald Trump Did at Pope's Funeral That Sparked Outrage | Trump Gets Called Out in Front of Millions at Pope's Funeral | Melania Trump Wears Black Veil to Pope Francis' Funeral as President Trump Dons Blue Suit
