Melania accused of hogging all the credit and ignoring Pope Leo’s role in securing Ukraine ceasefire
Melania Trump is facing criticism for claiming sole credit for a ceasefire in Oleshky, Ukraine, while ignoring the diplomatic efforts of Pope Leo XIV. The Vatican and Kremlin have confirmed the Pope's prior involvement in negotiating the humanitarian deal.
Why it matters
The dispute highlights tensions regarding diplomatic credit and the role of religious leaders in international conflict resolution.
A ceasefire in Russian-occupied Oleshky will begin October 29 to allow humanitarian aid and evacuations of elderly residents, the White House announced this week
Bookmark Comments Go to comments Bookmark popover Removed from bookmarks
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today.
First Lady Melania Trump is facing criticism for taking credit to secure a ceasefire in Ukraine without acknowledging Pope Leo XIV ’s earlier efforts.
A ceasefire in Oleshky, a city in southern Ukraine occupied by Russian forces, will begin October 29, the White House announced Friday. The deal would allow humanitarian aid deliveries and evacuations of elderly residents.
Melania called conditions in Oleshky “dire” and “on the brink of disaster,” claiming her intervention was crucial to securing the deal without mentioning Leo’s earlier outreach to Russian and Ukrainian leaders.
Headlinne story · 6 newsrooms
Melania Trump Brokers Oleshky Ceasefire for Humanitarian Aid
What every outlet reported, where they differ, and how each framed it →
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in