Protests erupted across the United States over the weekend, sparked by a contentious meeting at the White House involving former President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The demonstrations, organized primarily by the Mad River Valley chapter of Indivisible, a grassroots organizing group, took place in major cities and towns, including New York City, Los Angeles, and Boston.
The protests were a direct response to what many considered an "ambush" of Zelenskyy during the Oval Office meeting on Friday. Leading Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut, voiced their disapproval of Vance’s and Trump’s treatment of the Ukrainian president. Senator Murphy emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that the meeting crossed a significant line.
In Vermont, hundreds gathered in Waitsfield to oppose Vice President Vance's visit to the state. Protesters held signs reading "Vermont stands with Ukraine" and "International embarrassment," while many waved Ukrainian flags in solidarity with the embattled nation. Cori Giroux, a local organizer, expressed her outrage:
“After what he did yesterday, he crossed the line.”
In Boston, demonstrators held an "emergency rally" at Boston Common, advocating for "fair peace" for Ukraine amidst ongoing Russian aggression. This gathering highlighted the urgency felt by many Americans regarding the conflict and their desire for a more supportive U.S. stance.
Meanwhile, in Los Angeles County, a pro-Ukraine crowd rallied in front of a SpaceX facility, voicing their concerns over U.S. leadership and its impact on Ukraine's plight. The protests showcased a united front among protesters who are increasingly vocal about their support for Ukraine as it continues to face Russian invasion threats.
Vice President Vance's controversial remarks during the meeting drew ire from many political figures. Notably, he admitted that he had never traveled to Ukraine, which some saw as indicative of a lack of understanding or commitment to the situation. Reports indicated that he fled to an undisclosed location to evade protesters, further intensifying public scrutiny.
Zelenskyy, who remained in Ukraine during the ongoing conflict, continued to garner support overseas. He shared videos on social media depicting his warm reception in London, where crowds lined the streets outside Downing Street to show their solidarity. European leaders, including the prime ministers of Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, also took to social media to express their ongoing support for Ukraine amid rising tensions.
In Vermont, Governor Phil Scott issued a statement urging residents to be respectful of Vance and his family during their time in the state. This call for civility contrasted sharply with the emotions displayed at the protests, reflecting a broader national conversation about leadership and foreign policy.