Vladimir Putin has decided not to attend the funeral of Pope Francis, which is scheduled for this Saturday in Rome. The first congregation of Cardinals met to discuss the funeral arrangements, with leaders from around the world expected to attend. Despite not attending, Putin paid tribute to the late Pope, acknowledging his positive attitude towards Russia and his contributions to the world. The Pope’s body will be moved to St Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday before the funeral on Saturday, with the coffin then being buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome.
