Zelenskyy Assures US Lawmakers of Positive Developments in Ukraine Conflict Amid Ebbing Republican Backing

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President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine undertook a high-profile visit to Washington, D.C. last Thursday, seeking to bolster American backing for his country. While providing a positive update on Ukraine’s military efforts against Russian aggression, he encountered renewed scrutiny over the allocation of U.S. funds that have sustained his nation’s military for the past 19 months.

Though the reception he received was more subdued compared to his previous visit, Zelenskyy found general agreement among lawmakers regarding the financial aid he contends is vital to avoid defeat. Wearing long-sleeved military attire, Zelenskyy engaged in confidential discussions with leadership from both political parties, assuring them that Ukraine has a robust military strategy and is succeeding, particularly at a time when the global community is closely observing Western backing for Kyiv.

While in the U.S. capital, Zelenskyy also consulted with high-ranking military officials at the Pentagon and had a scheduled meeting with President Joe Biden. Upon his arrival at the Pentagon, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin greeted him without the conventional ceremonies usually associated with such visits.

In Congress, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who is navigating internal party dissent regarding support for Ukraine, notably abstained from joining House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries in welcoming the Ukrainian president. McCarthy confirmed that he turned down Zelenskyy’s appeal for a joint congressional session, citing the constraints of time. Nevertheless, McCarthy commended the straightforward and honest responses provided by the Ukrainian delegation.

Republican House members queried Zelenskyy about the future direction of Ukraine’s counteroffensive, especially as it approaches its two-year milestone without significant gains against Russian fortifications. Senator Angus King, an Independent, noted that Zelenskyy acknowledged the considerable difficulty in overcoming Russia’s entrenched positions but remained optimistic about incremental progress.

This trip marks Zelenskyy’s second visit to Washington since Russia’s invasion in February 2022 and comes at a pivotal moment as President Biden’s request for an additional $24 billion for Ukraine faces uncertainty in Congress. Meanwhile, in Ukraine, Russian forces intensified their bombardment shortly before Zelenskyy’s address to U.S. lawmakers, causing casualties and significant damage to infrastructure.

White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan emphasized that Biden aims to reinforce through Zelenskyy’s visit that the international community will not tolerate territorial aggression in the 21st century. Biden has also urged global leaders to remain steadfast in their support for Ukraine, despite facing domestic political discord, particularly from a faction of Republicans led by former President Donald Trump.

Zelenskyy also navigates diplomatic hurdles in Europe, where support from key allies like Poland is wavering. Recent statements from Poland’s prime minister indicated a halt in arms supply to Ukraine, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

Global and U.S. leaders closely watch Ukrainian efforts to regain territory lost to Russia over the past year. Russian President Vladimir Putin is poised to capitalize on any weakening in allied support for Kyiv, particularly if Ukraine faces a shortage in vital military equipment.

U.S. Administration officials disclosed plans to allocate another $325 million in presidential drawdown assistance for Ukraine, which includes specific categories of munitions and weaponry. Congressional support for Ukraine has generally remained strong, with approximately $113 billion allocated in four rounds of aid since the conflict began. This aid is viewed not just as philanthropy but as a strategic investment, particularly in the context of containing Russian expansionism.

The political landscape has seen notable changes since Zelenskyy’s December address to Congress. His closed-door meeting with senators took place in the Old Senate Chamber, underlining the respect accorded to him. Leaders from both parties greeted him warmly, and some even wore garments displaying Ukraine’s national colors.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer summarized the gravity of the meeting, stating, “Mr. Zelenskyy said if we don’t get the aid, we will lose the war.”

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, striving to maintain party unity in support of Ukraine, declared that America’s backing was not mere charity but rather a strategic investment in U.S. self-interests.

Contributors to this report include Seung Min Kim, Kevin Freking, Tara Copp, Lolita M. Baldor, and Farnoush Amiri.

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More about Zelenskyy Washington visit

• U.S.-Ukraine Relations
• Congressional Stance on Ukraine Aid
• Biden’s Foreign Policy on Ukraine
• Russia-Ukraine Conflict Timeline
• Poland Ceases Arms Supply to Ukraine
• U.S. Defense Aid to Ukraine
• President Zelenskyy’s Previous Visits to the U.S.
• Current U.S. Political Divisions on Overseas Aid
• Ukraine’s Military Strategy Against Russia
• Latest Russian Military Actions in Ukraine