Images of past US President Donald Trump apparently sleeping throughout Pope Francis’ funeral swept across social media on Saturday, sparking widespread outcry. Trump, 78, was present at the somber ceremony at the Vatican in Rome with First Lady Melania Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The three of them sat on the front row at the service.
Images Circulate Quickly, Attract Mockery
As the funeral ceremony progressed, photos emerged with Trump having his eyes closed, triggering widespread rumors that he had fallen asleep. Fortune reported that Trump also seemed to break with convention funeral attire by wearing a blue suit rather than black.
The viral photos prompted a wave of online outrage. Numerous social media users branded Trump’s behavior an “embarrassment to the United States.” A user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Trump sleeping at the Pope’s funeral. An embarrassment, as always.”
Others contrasted Trump with President Joe Biden, taunting Trump’s past criticisms. One post said, “I don’t ever want to hear another word about ‘Sleepy Joe’ — not after this circus. ???? There are photos of Trump texting, laughing, taking phone calls, and sleeping at the Pope’s funeral.”
Sarcastic remarks also filled the internet. A user posted, “Trump respected the Pope by texting, sleeping, and refusing to dress accordingly. He is such a representative of MAGA! Haha.”
Seating Arrangement and Other World Leaders
Trump and Melania sat between Estonia’s President Alar Karis and Spain’s King Felipe VI. Other guests, such as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, were seated at a distance. The seating adhered to the Vatican’s custom of seating guests alphabetically according to country name in French.
Trump earlier in the day posted photos of himself paying respects before Pope Francis’ coffin. Furthermore, Trump also had a private meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy during the visit — their first since their explosive confrontation at the White House in February.
