Washington, April 22, 2025 – The Europe Today: President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will travel to Rome to attend the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday morning at the age of 88.
“Melania and I will be going to the funeral of Pope Francis, in Rome. We look forward to being there!” President Trump announced on Truth Social. Earlier in the day, following the traditional White House Easter Egg Roll, the President had told reporters that he was awaiting a briefing on the funeral schedule before confirming his attendance. When asked if he wished to attend, Trump responded, “I don’t know, I just have to look at the timing.”
In honor of the late pontiff, President Trump signed an executive order directing all federal and state flags to be flown at half-staff. He paid tribute to Pope Francis as “a good man” who “loved the world.”
The exact date of the funeral is to be determined by the College of Cardinals. Traditionally, papal funerals are held between four and six days following the pope’s death and are preceded by a period of public mourning and viewing at St. Peter’s Basilica. The funeral service, a solemn Mass, is expected to draw world leaders and religious dignitaries from across the globe.
Pope Francis, known for his emphasis on humility, interfaith dialogue, and social justice, served as the head of the Roman Catholic Church since 2013.
Following the funeral, the College of Cardinals will convene the papal conclave in Vatican City to elect a new pope through a secret ballot, a process steeped in centuries of tradition.
President Trump’s attendance continues a precedent set by past American presidents. In 2005, then-President George W. Bush, along with former Presidents Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush, led the U.S. delegation to the funeral of Pope John Paul II.
The White House is expected to announce additional details regarding the President’s travel plans and the composition of the U.S. delegation in the coming days.
