Cardinals are reportedly due to meet in Vatican today to plan Pope Francis’ funeral, which leaders from around the world will attend ahead of a conclave next month to elect a new head of the Roman Catholic Church.
The Vatican had said that the 88-years-old pontiff unexpectedly died after suffering a stroke and cardiac arrest.
US President Donald Trump said he and his wife would fly to Rome for the event. Among other heads of state set to attend are Javier Milei, President of Francis’ native Argentina.
Meanwhile, Trump, Putin, JD Vance, Claudia Sheinbaum have offered condolences to the world’s Catholics and praised the pontiff’s commitment to the poor and marginalised.