The Vatican broke protocol to move Volodymyr Zelensky to the front row of Pope Francis’ funeral, 11 seats along from Donald Trump.

Leaders including the Ukranian and American premiers, Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron were scattered across a seating arrangement described as a ‘master plan’ in stage-managing ‘big egos’.

And while there had been speculation that Trump would be in the third row – which he would have likely seen as a snub – the leader of the free world found himself front and centre for the service.

However, an exception seems to have been made for Zelensky to ensure he was given a seat at the head of the pack – as his place should have been further back.

The Vatican did not deny that protocol had been overturned, with spokesperson Matteo Bruni telling The Telegraph: ‘I believe they filled a vacant place.’

It is not known who missed out on the solemn day, but there was speculation it could have been the Dutch royal family, who were spotted celebrating in their finery among their people today as the Netherlands marked King’s Day.

Alongside Trump and First Lady Melania, other front-row dignitaries include President of Ireland Michael D Higgins, Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky – who made a last-minute trip to be there – and Argentina’s Javier Milei, given the top spot.

Milei found himself closest to the Pope’s humble wooden casket because Francis is of Argentine birth, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in December 1936.

Next came Italy, as the Pope is also the bishop of Rome. Italian president Sergio Mattarella and his daughter Laura occupied the seats next to the Argentine leader. Immediately behind him sat Georgia Meloni, the Prime Minister of Italy.

Standing shoulder to shoulder with the Italian president Mr Mattarella, meanwhile, were the leaders of countries such as Albania and Angola.