Zelensky's Visit to Ammo Factory Sparks Diplomatic Tensions at White House
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Synopsis
President Zelensky's trip to a Scranton artillery shells factory during the US presidential campaign led to a heated diplomatic exchange at the Oval Office, with accusations of partisanship and foreign interference surfacing.
Key Takeaways
- Zelensky's visit occurred in a critical swing state.
- Accusations of undermining Trump emerged from US officials.
- The factory produces vital military supplies for Ukraine.
- Investments were made to increase production significantly.
- An investigation into potential foreign interference was launched.
New York, March 1 (NationPress) A visit by Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky to an artillery shells factory in Scranton, Pennsylvania, the hometown of former US President Joe Biden, during the peak of the US presidential campaign last year resulted in a diplomatic clash at the Oval Office.
US Vice-President J.D. Vance labeled him an ingrate on Friday, accusing him of undermining President Donald Trump in the lead-up to the election.
"You campaigned for the Opposition in Pennsylvania in October," Vance stated, leaning forward and gesturing towards him.
However, the visit actually took place in September; it was in a swing state that then-Vice President Kamala Harris deemed crucial for defeating Trump.
Republicans protested shortly after, dubbing it a campaign event for Harris.
Zelensky began to respond, saying, "If you think that speaking loudly about the war ...", but Trump interrupted, saying, "He is not speaking very loudly. Your country is in big trouble."
Following his factory tour, the Ukrainian leader posted on X, stating, "It is in places like this where one can genuinely feel the strength of the democratic world."
He further remarked, "Thanks to individuals like these -- in Ukraine, in America, and in all partner nations -- who relentlessly strive to ensure the safety of life."
The Scranton Army Ammunition Plant that Zelensky visited produces the 155 mm howitzer rounds, which are completed at another facility in Iowa.
These shells are critical for Ukraine's military efforts, with the US increasing their production by 50 percent and investing $400 million to modernize the plant.
Chairman of the US House of Representatives Oversight Committee, James Comer, initiated an investigation into potential foreign interference.
When announcing the inquiry, which did not advance, Comer wrote to then-Attorney General Merrick Garland, stating, "The Committee aims to determine if the Biden-Harris Administration sought to utilize a foreign leader to benefit Vice-President Harris' presidential campaign, thus potentially committing an abuse of power."
Republican Senator Eric Schmitt accused Zelensky of "openly campaigning for Democrats in battleground Pennsylvania."
To further the perception of partisanship, Zelensky was joined during his visit by former Democrat Senator Bob Casey, who ultimately lost the election to Republican Dave McCormick.
Zelensky concluded his visit with a meeting in Washington with Biden and Harris.
