Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky canceled an event in Washington where he was expected to speak about how to ensure peace in Ukraine, following a confrontation with his U.S. counterpart, Donald Trump, in the White House. The event, titled 'Ensuring Lasting Peace in Ukraine', was planned at the Hudson Institute. Zelensky's trip to the United States aimed at signing an economic agreement between both countries.
The dispute between the leaders in the Oval Office prevented the signing of the pact and shortened Zelensky's agenda in Washington. There were expectations for two public appearances at the White House, but the agenda was shortened after Trump felt that Zelensky was not ready for peace and criticized him for disrespecting the country.
Despite the cancellation, the event at the Hudson Institute generated surprise and concern among attendees, who were eager to hear from the Ukrainian president. The cancellation became evident when the chairs reserved for the Ukrainian delegation were empty. Zelensky did not appear, even though it was his first trip to the capital since Trump's inauguration.
According to Trump, Zelensky is not ready for peace because he believes that U.S. involvement gives him an advantage in negotiations. It is still unconfirmed whether Zelensky's next event in Washington is still on. The Ukrainian president is scheduled to have an interview on Fox, a network close to Trump, later in the day.
