Zelensky Heads To US For First Foreign Trip
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday hailed US support and received promises of more, including new missile defense systems, after he flew to Washington on his first foreign trip since Russia’s invasion.
Zelensky kept his trademark military fatigues rather than switching to a suit as President Joe Biden rolled out the red carpet, affectionately putting his hand over the wartime leader’s shoulder outside the White House.
“We’re going to continue to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend itself, particularly air defense,” Biden told Zelensky as they sat by the fireplace in the Oval Office.
President Vladimir Putin is “trying to use winter as a weapon, but the Ukrainian people continue to inspire the world,” Biden said.
“I mean that sincerely — not just inspire us but inspire the world with their courage and how they have chosen their resilience and resolve for their future,” Biden said.
Zelensky — whose media savvy and rugged demeanor have helped him rally the world to Ukraine’s cause — will later deliver an address to Congress, which is finalizing a new $45 billion package for Ukraine heading into the new year.
At the White House, Zelensky thanked Biden for his “big support and leadership across Europe.”
“I think it’s very difficult to understand what does it mean when we say appreciate but you really have to feel it,” Zelensky said in English.
He flew to the United States after a risky visit to the frontline in Bakhmut, where both sides have endured heavy tolls in constant shooting and shelling over the past two months.
Zelensky presented Biden with an award that he said was handed to him by a “real hero” — a captain on the ground of a HIMARS rocket system that has been a game-changer on the field.
“He’s very brave and he said, give it to very brave president,” Zelensky said.
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