Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on 21 April 2025 at the age of 88. The Kremlin has cited ongoing international travel restrictions as the reason for the president’s absence, underscoring the complex geopolitical context surrounding his movements abroad.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed Putin’s non-attendance, stating simply, “The president has no such plans.” The Russian leader continues to face limitations on his international travel, primarily due to an existing arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Putin Offers Condolences Amid Absence
Despite his inability to travel, President Putin expressed his condolences to the Vatican through a formal message addressed to Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church.
In his statement, Putin described Pope Francis as a wise spiritual guide and a steadfast advocate of peace and humanitarian values. He also commended the late pontiff for strengthening ties between the Russian Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches.
Funeral Details for the Late Pontiff
The funeral of Pope Francis is set to take place on Saturday, 26 April 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City. The service will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals.
Following the funeral, the Pope’s body will be taken into St. Peter’s Basilica before being laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, fulfilling his wish to be buried near the Salus Populi Romani icon, which he deeply revered.
Notably, Pope Francis’s burial plan deviates from tradition, as he becomes the first pope in over a century not to be interred in St. Peter’s Basilica. He also requested a simple grave with minimal decoration and a modest Latin inscription: “Franciscus.”
World leaders, religious dignitaries, and thousands of faithful are expected to attend the funeral. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, U.S. President Donald Trump, and First Lady Melania Trump are among those confirmed to participate in the ceremony.
Global Mourning and Tributes
Pope Francis’s death has left a profound impact on the global Catholic community and beyond. His final days were marked by a rapid health decline following a stroke that led to irreversible cardiac collapse. A comprehensive overview of the cause behind Pope Francis’s death outlines the medical details that led to this tragic loss.
The announcement of his passing drew an outpouring of condolences and remembrances. Among the many tributes, the UK’s political and religious leaders lauded his legacy, with reflections on Pope Francis’s compassionate leadership and his efforts to unite people across faiths and cultures.
As the Vatican prepares for the state funeral, millions around the world continue to honour the memory of a pontiff who was known for his humility, progressive vision, and enduring commitment to social justice. A full account of his final moments and official confirmation can be found in our coverage of Pope Francis’s death at age 88.
