Boris Johnson unexpectedly cut short his discussion with Richard Madeley and Susanna Reid on Good Morning Britain.
Susanna, 54, was eager to interview the ex-prime minister, hinting to entertainment reporter Richard Arnold that she might have to interrupt his segment should Mr Johnson be able to join them on the programme.
Defying expectations, the former Tory leader found the time to connect with the hosts live from Kyiv, marking three years to the day since Russia’s incursion into Ukraine.
Beginning the interview, Susanna quizzed: “This is a bit of surprise that you’ve turned up in Kyiv. It’s a big day, of course, because world leaders are having this call about what to do about Ukraine. What do you think should happen?”
The 60-year-old immediately dismissed any notion that Ukraine bore responsibility for the conflict, asserting: “It’s total rubbish. Ukraine is the victim,” reports the Express.
Mr Johnson continued by revealing his anticipation that the mineral rights agreement between the US and Ukraine is nearing completion.
“That commits the US not only to future financing of Ukraine but also to a free, sovereign and secure Ukraine under Donald Trump,” noted Mr Johnson. “That is not to be sneezed at, it’s a very important commitment.”
After fielding another query, the politician said, “Anyways, I’ve got to love you and leave you.”
However, Richard seemed eager to keep the dialogue going as he probed: “As a former prime minister, how do you deal with an American president who says that black is white. How do you talk to him?”
Mr. Johnson remarked that you “have to keep knocking the ball back over the net”, describing the situation as “crazy stuff” but also emphasised the importance of considering the actual proposals, stating: “This is crazy stuff but you’ve got to look at what is actually being proposed and when you look at the potential of the agreement, I think it’s positive for Ukraine.”
In a clear rush, Mr Johnson quickly took off his earpiece, declaring: “I’ve got to go.”
As the politician was seen removing all his equipment and exiting the frame, Susanna commented: “Thank you very much indeed for your time this morning. Just disentangling himself from our microphone and off he goes.”
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays at 6am on ITV.