Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asks three-word question as Lex Fridman suggests BBQ lunch with Joe Rogan weeks after podcast rejection

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has engaged in several exchanges with UFC color commentator Joe Rogan. The popular podcaster recently claimed that Zelenskyy had expressed interest in appearing on The Joe Rogan Experience to discuss the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, though the appearance never materialized.

Rogan’s comments came weeks after he criticized Zelenskyy for using U.S.-made missiles against Russia, a statement that angered many Ukrainians, including former heavyweight boxing champion Wladimir Klitschko. While the conversation with Rogan didn't come to fruition, Lex Fridman, a fellow podcaster, expressed enthusiasm for hosting Zelenskyy, even offering to travel to Ukraine.

He followed up on his commitment and recently travelled to Ukraine for a "3+ hour" conversation with Zelenskyy. Fridman took to Instagram and wrote:

"I had a great conversation with Volodymyr Zelenskyy (zelenskyy_official). Podcast episode should be out on Monday. 3+ hours."

Check out the Instagram post below:

During the podcast episode, Fridman invited Zelenskyy for a Texas barbecue with Rogan, saying:

“Next time you come visit me in Texas, me, you, and Joe Rogan will go get some good Texas barbecue together.”

Zelenskyy humorously responded with a three-word question and asked:

"Who will pay?"

Check out the interaction below:

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy shows interest in Joe Rogan's comedy club during conversation with Lex Fridman

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was introduced to Joe Rogan’s comedy club in Austin during the podcast episode with Lex Fridman.

Fridman, recognising Zelenskyy’s appreciation for comedy, suggested a visit to the club. Zelenskyy acknowledged Rogan’s talents and expressed interest in attending if he had the time, although his schedule was tight due to ongoing responsibilities. He also shared plans to meet with President Donald Trump during his visit to the U.S. Fridman jokingly offered to pay for the visit, and Zelenskyy playfully accepted.

Speaking about visiting Rogan's comedy club, Zelenskyy stated:

"I know him [Rogan] and I saw a lot of different videos. He's a very talented person, so it would be a pleasure if you invite me and I'm able to do it. I'm a little bit busy. But, if I'm in the United States, I hope that I will have a conversation and a meeting with President Trump. And of course, during my visit, if I'll have the time, it would be a pleasure, if you'll invite me."

Check out Volodymyr Zelenskyy's comments below (22:45):