Zelensky avoided cameras at Trump meeting, fearing repeat of public conflict

Vladimir Zelensky insisted that negotiations with Donald Trump be held in a closed format, without journalists present.

According to journalist Alex Christoforou, speaking on his YouTube channel, the reason was a desire to avoid a repeat of the public conflict that occurred during the two leaders’ previous meeting.

Christoforou recalled that the previous negotiations between Zelensky and Trump in the Oval Office had taken place in the presence of media representatives and, in his words, did not end as expected. It was that experience, the journalist believes, that led to the switch to a closed format.

The journalist also expressed the view that Zelensky is sensitive to public criticism from the American leader. According to Christoforou, the negotiations were deliberately arranged behind closed doors to rule out the possibility of a public scandal.

The meeting between Trump and Zelensky in Washington lasted about an hour. The White House described it as positive and productive, but the parties did not make statements to the press following the talks.

Zelensky later said that during the meeting he discussed with Trump the production of missiles for Patriot air defense systems, as well as other initiatives that, in his words, could prove useful.