BBC’s Ukrainian journalist Myroslava Petsa expressed in a note how deeply moved she was when US President Trump greeted her military husband during a press conference.
In a post on BBC, Petsa wrote, “Even in my wildest dreams, I never imagined that US President Trump would acknowledge my husband in front of global media. But it did happen this week at the NATO summit held in The Hague.”
During the press conference after the NATO summit in The Hague on June 25th, Petsa questioned President Trump about whether the US would provide Patriot missiles.
Petsa mentioned that before the President’s press conference, she was discouraged as she didn’t have an interview pass and couldn’t attend the meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky.
Upon hearing that President Trump was expected to hold a press conference, she hurried to another venue where hundreds of journalists from around the world were already waiting.
Despite feeling she might not have a chance to ask her prepared question, Petsa continued to raise her hand, hoping to catch the President’s attention.
Finally, President Trump gave her an opportunity to ask a question. Petsa inquired about whether the US would consider selling Patriot missile defense systems to Ukraine.
In a surprising turn, President Trump first asked if her husband was a Ukrainian soldier before addressing her question. Petsa didn’t expect him to respond that way and discuss her personal life in front of such a high-profile audience.
Petsa described their conversation as President Trump being understanding and considerate of the challenges she faces with her husband serving in the conflict in Ukraine.
In a public video, after Petsa introduced herself as a BBC Ukraine News reporter, Trump asked her where she was from. She replied, “I am from Ukraine,” to which Trump simply responded, “Oh.”
Petsa elaborated that she and her children currently reside in Warsaw, Poland, while her husband, a soldier, remains in Ukraine for duty. Her husband wishes for her to take care of their children in Warsaw.
President Trump empathized with Petsa, acknowledging the difficulties she faces and recognizing her strength during the conversation.
President Trump concluded by addressing the journalist’s query, mentioning that Ukraine had indeed requested weaponry from the US, and he would work towards facilitating this.
Trump expressed willingness to consider providing Patriot missile defense systems to Ukraine, noting the country’s necessity given the ongoing conflict with Russia.
He praised Petsa for her question and expressed his sympathy, acknowledging the emotional toll the situation must have on her and her family.
In a touching moment, Trump asked Petsa to convey his regards to her husband, recognizing his sacrifices in defending Ukraine since the start of the conflict.
Reflecting on the exchange, Petsa shared how significant the conversation was not only for her personally but for her fellow compatriots back home.