The invitation was prompted by the ongoing war and a recent deadly missile strike in Sumy, which killed at least 34 people, including two children. Zelensky wants Trump to see firsthand the devastation caused by Russia's actions.

Trump criticized the situation as 'terrible' but shifted blame to multiple parties, suggesting it was a 'mistake' on several levels and that everyone involved bears responsibility. He also repeated false claims about the 2020 election and implied that he could have prevented the war if he were president.

European leaders condemned the strike as a war crime, criticizing Russia's actions and Trump's characterization of it as a 'mistake.' Poland's Foreign Minister called the attack 'Russia's mocking answer' to recent ceasefire proposals.

Zelensky highlighted that global security is at stake as Russia's actions could escalate into a broader conflict involving NATO and the U.S. He emphasized the need for urgent global action to address Russia's aggression in Ukraine.