Conan O’Brien didn’t hold back during his Oscars hosting gig, using the stage to take a swipe at both Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. While discussing the success of Anora, a film that won multiple awards that night, O’Brien quipped, “I think Americans are finally ready for someone to stand up to a powerful Russian.” The remark was a clear reference to the recent heated meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which had dominated headlines in the days leading up to the ceremony.
The meeting, held at Trump’s official residence, quickly turned confrontational. Trump reportedly warned Zelenskyy that he was “gambling with World War III,” accusing him of taking advantage of U.S. involvement in the conflict. Zelenskyy later took to social media to thank the American people for their support, while Trump doubled down, claiming the Ukrainian leader had “disrespected the United States” and wasn’t ready for peace. The intense exchange only fueled the already polarizing discussions about the ongoing war and America’s role in it.
O’Brien’s joke wasn’t lost on the audience, many of whom reacted with laughter and applause. The Oscars have long been a platform for political commentary, and this year was no different. Given the escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia, along with Trump’s divisive stance on the issue, the comedian’s remark landed right in the middle of a global political storm. Social media quickly lit up with reactions, with some praising O’Brien for his boldness and others criticizing him for bringing politics into the event.
The Academy has not commented on the moment, but it’s clear O’Brien’s jab added to the night’s buzz. His sharp humor and willingness to address controversial topics are part of what made him a standout host. Whether audiences agreed with his take or not, the joke ensured that politics remained a talking point at the 97th Academy Awards.
