December 21, 2022
I am in Washington today to thank the American people, the President and the Congress for their much-needed support. And also to continue cooperation to bring our victory closer.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as he arrived in the United States on Wednesday. This is his first known trip outside of Ukraine since Russia invaded the country nearly 10 months ago.
Why It Matters: President Zelenskyy’s visit is intended to “underscore the United States’ steadfast commitment to supporting Ukraine for as long as it takes, including through the provision of economic, humanitarian, and military assistance,” White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. President Zelenskyy is meeting with President Biden at the White House on Wednesday afternoon and will deliver an address to a Joint Session of Congress on Wednesday evening. *Stay tuned for further coverage.*
Big Picture: “The highly sensitive trip was taking place after 10 months of a brutal war that has seen tens of thousands of casualties on both sides and devastation for Ukrainian civilians. Just before his [Pres. Zelenskyy’s] arrival, the U.S. announced its largest single delivery of arms to Ukraine, including Patriot surface-to-air missiles, and Congress planned to vote on a spending package that includes about $45 billion in emergency assistance to Ukraine” (The Associated Press).
Biden tells Zelenskyy: ‘It’s an honor to be by your side’ (The Associated Press)
Background Press Call on the Upcoming Visit of President Zelenskyy of Ukraine (The White House)
Fact Sheet on U.S. Security Assistance to Ukraine (United States Department of Defense)
by Jenna Lee,
