Ukrainian President reportedly discussed making Oscars appearance

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reportedly had discussions with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to make a video appearance during Sunday’s broadcast of the Academy Awards, The New York Post has learned.

Academy officials still are debating on whether Zelensky will appear briefly on the show, sources also said. It’s also not clear if he would appear live or by a pre-recorded message. Sources said the debate centers on whether the Oscars should remain apolitical as the Russian invasion continues.

ABC, which is broadcasting the show, is said to be in favor of Zelensky, a former actor, making a statement, however they have not returned any requests for comment.

Meanwhile, it’s believed that Ukranian-born actress Mila Kunis, who raised $35 million with her husband, Ashton Kutcher, for the Ukranian refugees, will make a statement during the awards show.

On Twitter Sunday, Zelensky shared a photo of himself in a Zoom meeting with the couple. “@aplusk & Mila Kunis were among the first to respond to our grief. They have already raised $35 million & are sending it to @flexport & @Airbnb to help refugees. Grateful for their support. Impressed by their determination. They inspire the world. #StandWithUkraine,” he wrote.

The show’s executive producer, Will Packer, told reporters during a virtual press conference on Thursday: “This is a really [momentous] time in humankind history, and we’re very aware of that. And so you don’t go into a show like this, I don’t think, and not be aware of that and not find a way to respectfully acknowledge where we are and how fortunate we are to even be able to put on this show.”