The State Department did not respond to questions about why Pompeo canceled the speech and whether it was due to his own health concerns about holding a large indoor event. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal department matters. The State Department said masks would be required for attendance and it would enforce social distancing guidelines. But photos of the event showed attendees removing masks to eat food and drinks atop plaid tablecloths. (The Washington Post)Two invitees expressed disappointment about the event, saying it put at risk diplomats, their families and the staff involved in putting on the event.

Source: Washington Post December 16, 2020 01:50 UTC