Volodymyr Zelensky Surprises BBC Ukraine Journalist With Hug During Historic UK Visit
08.02.2023 - 21:35
/ deadline.com
Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, paid a historic visit to the UK on Wednesday — and surprised a compatriot with a hug during an impromptu moment during a press conference.
Zelensky’s trip was only announced on Wednesday morning as he drums up support for Ukraine’s resistance following Russia’s invasion last February.
During a press conference in Dorset, a BBC Ukrainian journalist rose to her feet and prefaced her question by saying she would like to give Zelensky a hug, but would probably not be allowed.
“Why not?” Zelensky responded, before vacating his lectern and offering a warm embrace. Rishi Sunak, the British Prime Minister, could be seen in the background smiling and applauding.
In a surprise move President Zelensky hugs a journalist from BBC Ukraine during his press conference with Rishi Sunak.pic.twitter.com/JFkngB267f
Other reporters described the moment as “touching” as they captured the encounter on their phones.
BBC Ukraine journo just got a hug!!! She said she really wanted one from Zelensky but she's not allowed to ask so he came over and gave her one. pic.twitter.com/T86dSMCLKo
Zelensky is in the UK to request that the country supply fighter planes to the Ukrainian war effort, something Western allies have so far declined to do. He gave a speech to lawmakers at Westminster Hall, during which he gifted Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, a helmet from a Ukrainian fighter pilot inscribed with the message: “We have freedom. Give us wings to protect it.”
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