Zelensky and Merz, And that moment without translation: what we can learn (really) from this unexpected
A real-life episode that went around the world
During a press conference in Berlin on May 28, 2025, a brief mishap caught the attention of the international media. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was speaking in Ukrainian, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz had to interrupt him gracefully: the simultaneous translation was not working properly and was not getting audio in his earpiece.
Zelensky responded with a wry joke - "Don't they translate you? Again?" - diluting the tension. The episode was resolved in a matter of seconds, but it left a profound reflection: even in high-profile events, where everything is planned down to the smallest detail, the unexpected technical glitch can always occur.
Technology can fail. But the organization does not have to
A matter of preparation, not blame
It is important to note that, in this case, this was not a failure on the part of the organizers or performers involved. Technology, however advanced, is not infallible. This is precisely why in such sensitive contexts it is essential to adopt preventive strategies and flexible solutions.
At International Congresses, we know how essential it is to prepare a multilingual event not only linguistically, but also organizationally and technically. From checking booths to checking audio channels, from preparing glossaries to coordinating with technicians, each step is an integral part of our service of professional interpreting.
The interpreter is not (just) a voice: it is a guarantee of communication
Beyond the word-for-word translation
Working as conference interpreter does not mean simply translating from one language to another. It means understanding the context, grasping the nuances, adapting the tone, managing the timing ... and, at times, coping with unforeseen events with lucidity. It is precisely in situations such as Berlin that the value of an experienced interpreter who can maintain the quality of service even when technology does not support it becomes apparent.
For this, our team consists exclusively of. certified mother-tongue interpreters, with experience in institutional, diplomatic, technical and corporate settings.
What this case teaches us (and what we do additionally)
The episode between Merz and Zelensky is a cue for us, not a criticism. Every international event is a complex system, and no one is immune to little hiccups. But it is the management of those details-sometimes invisible-that makes the difference between a smooth conference and a moment of global awkwardness.
That is why, in our projects, we do not just "provide interpreters." We deal with the comprehensive service planning, integrating technology, people and vision. We work with clients to structure effective briefings, verify each technical component, and remain present throughout the event.
Conclusion: the right voice at the right time
After all, this episode reminds us how delicate the thread of communication is. A speech can stop for a second of silence. A dialogue can falter if a word is missing. But a well-organized interpretation service is the safety net that ensures that everything keeps flowing, in every language and for every audience.
This is why we invest in quality, preparation and reliability every day: because no one ever remains without translation.
