Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy broke one of the cardinal rules of diplomacy today: Never introduce a surprise in a high-stakes meeting. This
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy broke one of the cardinal rules of diplomacy today: Never introduce a surprise in a high-stakes meeting. This principle is sacrosanct among leaders, particularly when navigating complex international relationships. Yet, Zelenskyy employed a risky gambit, attempting to leverage media influence to strengthen his negotiating position with the nation that has already provided his country with $183 billion in aid.
At the outset of a press conference intended to pave the way for a formal agreement, Zelenskyy seized upon a reporter’s question to deliver an unexpected lecture to the United States on the history of the war. The spectacle was nothing short of negotiation by media. Vice President JD Vance — understandably taken aback by Zelenskyy’s approach — challenged the Ukrainian president’s remarks, prompting Zelenskyy to accuse him of raising his voice. From that moment, the dialogue devolved into diplomatic disarray.
What made the misstep more perplexing was Zelenskyy’s choice of venue: an American sacred space, emblematic of democracy and steeped in history.
