Letters | Why Ukraine’s Zelensky should not sweat the small stuff with allies
Readers discuss Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts, confusion over Hong Kong’s Covid-19 vaccine requirements, and the potential effects of taxi fare hikes on drivers and passengers
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To many, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky might be 2022’s Man of the Year. Over the past months, he has addressed the parliaments of several countries around the world, often to loud applause.
The national and political leaders who have visited Kyiv and met Zelensky include UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the Speaker of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. These visits are expressions of support in Ukraine’s fight against Russia and serve to encourage the Ukrainian people.
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However, Zelensky has made some obvious diplomatic errors, especially with countries that support Ukraine. First, his administration rejected German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier’s offer to visit Ukraine in April for what it saw as his soft stance on Russia in the past. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that this “stands in the way” of him visiting Ukraine himself. The two countries only managed to clear the air this month.
Second, Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett reportedly refused a request by Ukraine to cancel or bring forward an event in Israel to mark Victory Day; the day commemorating the end of World War II in Europe is marked by Russia on May 9 while the US, UK, France and others celebrate Victory in Europe Day on May 8. Israel holds events on May 9 for immigrants from Russia and former Soviet countries. The request from Ukraine is odd and illogical from a diplomatic point of view.
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UK PM Johnson makes surprise visit to Kyiv for talks with Ukrainian leader Zelensky
UK PM Johnson makes surprise visit to Kyiv for talks with Ukrainian leader Zelensky
Third, Zelensky said French President Emmanuel Macron asked Ukraine to make concessions related to its sovereignty to help Russian President Vladimir Putin save face. But the Elysée Palace denied this.
