Donald Trump has drawn scorn from many watching today’s funeral of Pope Francis, with people online slamming the US President as “disrespectful”.
Trump is among the world leaders to have travelled to Rome, joining the likes of Prime Minister Keir Starmer and heir to the throne Prince William among the 54 heads of state and 12 reigning sovereigns. Following the Pope’s death last Monday, more than 250,000 people have paid their respects over three days of public viewing that ended today. However, many have accused Trump of showing “disrespect” to the late Pope this morning with his choice of outfit.
While most have chosen to wear traditional black for the funeral – including his wife Melania who has matched it with a veil, the president has worn a blue suit for the service.
One said on social media: “Why isn’t Trump wearing a black suit? Such disrespect.” Another said on X: “Respect? He’s not even wearing a black suit. At least Melania is attending the funeral in all black including a modest black veil. Wishing a real bad sunburn on his bald combover.”
Another added: “Who wears a blue suit to a funeral?” One more said: “What is it with Trump that he did not even have the decency to wear a black tie, never mind he wore a blue suit.”
Another unhappy social media user said: Trump, wearing a blue suit. No class, whatsoever.” Another added: “Look at our tone deaf, idiot President Trump wearing blue at Pope Francis’ funeral.
“Not a day goes by that this makeup covered moron doesn’t embarrass us on the world stage.”
Proceedings got underway at 10am local time (9am BST) and will last for several hours, likely into the early afternoon, with the service taking place at St Peter’s Basilica before a procession moves his body to St Mary Major, a basilica in central Rome the late Pontiff visited frequently during his life.
In line with his wishes, Francis will be buried in a simple wooden coffin, abandoning the traditional triple-casket arrangement. More than 250,000 people have flocked to St Peter’s Basilica since Wednesday, with the Vatican keeping its doors open overnight to manage the surging crowds as a massive security presence watched on.
On Friday, an emergency alert was sent out to phones in Rome and the Vatican to inform visitors that access to the church would end at 5pm local time. The Pope’s coffin was then sealed in a special ceremony led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell.
The Holy See has announced that 200,000 people are currently in Vatican City to attend the funeral service of Pope Francis I. A spokesperson for the press office of the Holy See revealed the number as Re continues to deliver his dedication to the late Pontiff.
They said: “At this time the competent authorities inform that approximately 200 thousand people are participating in the funeral of Pope Francis.”
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