Zelensky: US trip meant to strengthen Ukraine’s ‘resilience and defense capabilities’
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed early Wednesday he will visit the U.S. later in the day, framing the visit as an opportunity to strengthen Ukraine’s “resilience and defense capabilities.”
Zelensky’s announcement came as the White House also confirmed the visit, indicating the Ukrainian leader will meet with President Biden and later address Congress.
“On my way to the US to strengthen resilience and defense capabilities of [Ukraine]. In particular, @POTUS and I will discuss cooperation between [Ukraine] and [the U.S.]. I will also have a speech at the Congress and a number of bilateral meetings,” Zelensky wrote on Twitter.
On my way to the US to strengthen resilience and defense capabilities of 🇺🇦. In particular, @POTUS and I will discuss cooperation between 🇺🇦 and 🇺🇸. I will also have a speech at the Congress and a number of bilateral meetings.
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) December 21, 2022
“I hope you’re having a good flight, Volodymyr,” Biden responded. “I’m thrilled to have you here. Much to discuss.”
A separate announcement published by Zelensky’s office also says the Ukrainian president will hold a series of bilateral meetings.
Biden on Wednesday is expected to announce an additional $2 billion in military aid alongside Zelensky, a package that will include Patriot Missile Batteries, an advanced air defense system.
Congress also included $45 billion for Ukraine in the omnibus government funding package lawmakers are working to pass this week, an amount that exceeds the White House’s original proposal of $38 billion.
“Weapons, weapons and more weapons,” Zelensky adviser Mykhailo Podolyak told Reuters of the purpose of the visit to the U.S.
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Zelensky: US trip meant to strengthen Ukraine’s "resilience and defense capabilities" https://t.co/yBqFYzPnoO pic.twitter.com/e8R4MdNVYl
— The Hill (@thehill) December 21, 2022
Today the Spiritual Leader of the global battle between democracy and autocracy is coming to Washington. Today, Americans will learn all they need to know as to which elected officials are on democracy’s side by who embraces @ZelenskyyUa and who doesn’t.
— Trygve Olson (@trygveolson) December 21, 2022
Highly recommended:
Zelensky’s “presence in Washington will help remind people that this is not some esoteric foreign-policy tangle, but a brutal, bloody human contest between democracy and authoritarianism,” writes @RadioFreeTom: https://t.co/M4ioTP5Scd
— Doug Thompson (@NWADoug) December 21, 2022
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