During Pope Francis’ funeral, First Lady Melania Trump encouraged President Trump to engage in handshake greetings with other world leaders. This gesture took place during a moment in the Catholic mass where attendees were invited to share the “sign of peace” by shaking hands with each other.
Forensic lip reader Jeremy Freeman revealed that Melania whispered to Trump to look to his left, prompting him to greet Estonian President Alar Karis and Spain’s King Felipe VI. Trump then proceeded to shake hands with Finnish President Alexander Stubb before engaging in a prolonged handshake with French President Emmanuel Macron.
Despite the extended handshake with Macron, no words were exchanged between the two leaders. Trump quickly shifted his attention back to Stubb, asking him how he was doing. The encounter with Macron has become a well-known ritual between the two powerful figures.
Additionally, Trump had a nearly 15-minute conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky before the funeral, marking their first meeting since a contentious Oval Office discussion two months prior. The White House described the meeting as “very productive,” with Zelensky echoing the sentiment.
Images of the interaction between Trump and other world leaders quickly circulated online, with the Trumps being seated in the front row at the services despite initial speculations about Vatican protocol. Melania wore a black lace ensemble while Trump opted for a navy suit and tie.
Throughout the services, Trump checked on Melania, asking if she was okay and later confirming that their discussion was good. The couple shared a brief exchange affirming their agreement on something undisclosed.
More than 250,000 mourners from 164 countries gathered to pay their respects to Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta on Easter Monday.
