Melania Trump issues statement after spending her birthday at Pope’s funeral

Melania Trump has spoken out after she spent her birthday at the funeral for Pope Francis.

The late pontiff died aged 88 on Easter Monday (21 April) after a series of health issues, including a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure. News of the Pope’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes across the globe.

US President Donald Trump quickly confirmed that both he and his wife Melania would attend the funeral, which took place in St Peter's Square in Vatican City on Saturday (26 April), the same day as the First Lady's 55th birthday.

Writing on his Truth Social platform after news of the Pope’s death was shared, Trump said: "Melania and I will be going to the funeral of Pope Francis, in Rome. We look forward to being there!"

The strange comment sparked outrage, with people calling out both the president and Melania over the post.

"Nobody looks forward to going to a funeral," one person complained on X. "Funerals are somber, depressing occasions where people cry and tell stories about the deceased."

Another added: "Utterly weird to say you are ‘looking forward’ to attending a funeral. Nobody says that."

While a third commented: "Donald Trump announced He and Melania is looking forward to going to the POPE'S FUNERAL. That's heartless."

Melania has since used X to thank her followers and supporters for their birthday wishes while also reflecting on the ‘honour’ of attending Pope Francis’ funeral on the same day.

"Thank you all for the heartfelt birthday wishes," she wrote in a statement shared on the FLOTUS X account. "I had the honour of attending Pope Francis' funeral, on this day, where I prayed for the healing of those who are suffering and for peace in the world."

The post was shared alongside a solemn black and white image of Melania at the funeral wearing an all-black ensemble consisting of a longline blazer and skirt suit, which she paired with a black embroidered mantilla on her head and sheer embroidered gloves.

The outfit garnered a positive response from social media users, despite some thinking a 'body double' was used.

"You looked wonderful," one X user gushed in response to Melania’s birthday post.

"What a lovely birthday wish you bestowed upon us," someone else penned. "I join you in praying for healing and peace."

Meanwhile, several other users simply wished Melania a happy birthday.