The ghost of the traumatic meeting in February haunts the latest gathering in Washington. European leaders have mobilized to support Volodymyr Zelenskyy, determined to prevent a repeat of the “mauling” he endured during his last visit to Donald Trump’s Oval Office.
This “bodyguard” mission is a direct response to that past trauma. The allies are not just there to offer moral support; they are there to change the conditions of the meeting, ensuring Zelenskyy is not again left vulnerable to what they fear will be bullying tactics.
The strategy involves creating a united front that Trump cannot easily dismiss or divide. By flanking Zelenskyy with the leaders of Europe’s most powerful nations and institutions, the delegation aims to create a political shield.
The memory of February has galvanized Europe into action. Leaders like Keir Starmer, who hugged a shaken Zelenskyy after that previous meeting, are now in Washington to ensure history does not repeat itself. Their presence is a preemptive measure to exorcise the ghost of the last visit and secure a better outcome for Ukraine.