Putin Won’t Attend Pope Francis’ Funeral

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Russian President Vladimir Putin does not plan to attend Pope Francis’ funeral scheduled for Saturday.

“The president has no such plans,” Peskov said.

According to Peskov, no decision has been made yet on who will represent Russia at the ceremony.

“I can’t tell you just yet; it has not been decided yet. We will update you once a decision is made,” he added.

LEADERSHIP reports that the funeral for the late pontiff will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025.

Several world leaders are expected to attend the ceremony including the presidents of Brazil, the United States and France announcing plans to be available to pay the late pope their last respect.

Representatives of various religions and churches will also gather for the funeral.

Pope Francis passed away Easter Monday on April 21 at the age of 88.

LEADERSHIP recalls that a month ago, the pontiff was discharged from the hospital after a 40-day treatment for severe pneumonia.

His doctors said later that the pontiff had twice reached the brink of death and was eventually prescribed complete rest for two months.

However, he started taking brief walks to visit St. Peter’s Basilica.

On Easter Sunday, Francis took a Popemobile to tour St. Peter’s Square, which was full of believers.

Pope Francis himself prescribed a simplified rite for his funeral with the wish to be buried in the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, which he always visited for prayers.