The funeral of Pope Francis in Rome this Saturday is expected to draw a large crowd at St Peter’s Square in the Vatican. Many world leaders have already confirmed they will attend the ceremony to pay their respects. The presence of such high-profile figures shows how much the pope was respected across different nations and political sides.
From the Americas, US President Donald Trump and his wife Melania are among those attending. Trump shared online that they “look forward to being there,” showing his personal appreciation for the pope. Argentina’s President Javier Milei will also be present. Even though the pope had a complicated relationship with Argentina’s politics, Milei still praised his kindness and wisdom.
Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and his wife Jana will be in attendance as well. Lula has spoken before about how Pope Francis stood against unfair economic systems and spoke for the poor and vulnerable.
In Europe, many leaders are also traveling to Rome. Ursula von der Leyen, head of the EU Commission, and Antonio Costa, the European Council president, have confirmed they will attend. From the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Prince William will represent the nation, with Prince William standing in for King Charles III. Ireland’s President Micheal Higgins and his wife, along with Prime Minister Micheal Martin, are also on the list of attendees.
Spain’s royal family will be represented by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia. Felipe called the pope a strong moral guide for the modern world. French President Emmanuel Macron is attending too, cutting short an international trip to make it to the funeral, saying it was the right thing to do.
Germany will send both its outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. However, Friedrich Merz, the incoming chancellor, will not attend.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his wife Olena will be there as well. Zelensky once noted how Pope Francis prayed for peace in Ukraine. On the other hand, Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend. The Kremlin said he will stay away, especially since he is wanted by the International Criminal Court. Despite that, Putin praised the pope for always trying to keep good relations with Russia.
Other European leaders attending include Belgium’s Prime Minister Bart De Wever, King Philippe, and Queen Mathilde. Poland’s President Andrzej Duda will be there with his wife and has declared Saturday a national day of mourning. Portugal will send its President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Prime Minister Luis Montenegro. Leaders from Hungary, Austria, and Slovenia have confirmed they will attend. The Baltic states will also be fully represented by the presidents of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia.
This gathering of leaders from around the world shows the deep impact Pope Francis had on many people and countries. His funeral will not just be a moment of sorrow, but also a symbol of unity and respect for a global figure who tried to bridge gaps, fight injustice, and speak for peace.
