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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Washington to seek U.S. aid for his country’s ongoing war with Russia. After appealing to leaders in Congress, Zelenskyy met with President Joe Biden, as the White House warned that without new funding, Ukraine would struggle to maintain control of its territory. Zelenskyy stressed that his country’s fight is a fight for freedom and that Ukraine’s allies cannot afford to step back now.
Despite his efforts to secure additional aid, Republicans are demanding that any new funding for Ukraine be linked to strict U.S.-Mexico border security changes, which has put the prospect of further assistance in doubt. Biden urged Congress to pass the supplemental funding for Ukraine before the holiday recess, warning that failure to do so would only embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin and other aggressors on the world stage.
During his visit to the Oval Office and meetings with congressional leaders, Zelenskyy emphasized the sacrifices his country has made in its fight against Russian invasion and the important role that the U.S. plays in supporting Ukraine. The White House pointed to newly declassified intelligence showing that Ukraine has inflicted heavy losses on Russia in recent fighting, and U.S. intelligence officials believe that Russia’s goal is to achieve a military deadlock to drain Western support for Ukraine.
Amid the negotiations over aid, Zelenskyy reassured the U.S. that Ukraine is worth the substantial cost, emphasizing that Ukraine can win and that people need to be confident that freedom is secure. The proposed $110 billion national security package includes $61.4 billion for Ukraine, with half allocated to the U.S. Defense Department to replenish weaponry and the other half for humanitarian assistance and to help the Ukrainian government function.
Despite facing opposition from some Republicans, Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington highlighted the high stakes for Ukraine and the ongoing need for U.S. support in the face of Russian aggression.
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