Melania Trump joined former US President Donald Trump to Rome on Saturday to witness the funeral of Pope Francis, an event that was attended by world leaders. Melania was observed leaning forward and whispering into his ear before Trump spoke to the dignitaries during the ceremony at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican.
Among the guests seated close to the couple were Finnish President Alexander Stubb and French President Emmanuel Macron, who spent the Holy Mass with them, sharing the serious moment.
What Melania Whispered to Trump
Melania is said to have whispered five words to Trump by professional lip reader Nicola Hickling: “You should go do it.” According to Hickling, Melania had repeated the advice, and after that, Trump replied, “Oh alright.”
Body language analyst Judi James referred to Melania’s move as “rather sweet,” and she told Irish Star that it was a soft push for Trump to join in the “Sign of Peace” ritual—a gesture signifying the goodwill of those present.
It was a very nice, smiling whisper from Melania that told Trump they were to go through this ceremony called the ‘Sign of Peace,’ going around greeting others near them to record peace on the globe,” James explained.
Trump’s Interaction With Macron
In response to Melania’s prodding, Trump shook hands with leaders in the vicinity. His handshake with Macron was particularly noteworthy as it seemed more intentional. Trump pulled Macron’s hand towards his chest in what looked like one of his characteristic “power shakes.” Nevertheless, Macron smiled and kept eye contact, showing a sense of friendship.
“The two leaders evidently referenced their established relationship here though Trump did make it a distracted welcome at the end, turning to address another leader while still holding Macron’s hand in his own,” James noted.
Trump Greets Zelensky in Rome
Addressing the press, Trump said he went to the funeral “out of respect” for Pope Francis, even though they have had differences in the past over topics such as immigration and global warming. In a gesture of respect, he also directed US flags to be flown at half-staff.
Before leaving Washington, Trump indicated he planned to hold “a lot” of meetings with various leaders on the sidelines of the funeral. Among those meetings was one with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who later described their conversation as “very productive.”
