Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy made an appeal to lawmakers in Washington for ongoing support in the war with Russia. This comes as some Republicans express skepticism about whether Congress should approve additional aid for Ukraine. Zelenskiy has been working to garner international support, including meetings with military leaders at the Pentagon, President Joe Biden, and an address at the National Archives museum.
While Biden and most congressional leaders still support aid to Ukraine, Zelenskiy is facing a tougher audience compared to his visit to Washington nine months ago. Dressed in military attire, Zelenskiy briefed the full U.S. Senate in the historic Old Senate Chamber and received several standing ovations.
Zelenskiy emphasized the importance of military aid to Ukraine’s war effort during the briefing. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer quoted Zelenskiy as saying, “If we don’t get the aid, we will lose the war.” Zelenskiy also visited the Pentagon, where he was greeted by U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and paid tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks.
As Ukraine’s military counteroffensive continues and Congress debates spending ahead of a possible government shutdown, some Republicans are questioning the billions of dollars that the U.S. has sent to Ukraine. However, Schumer argues that cutting off support now would be detrimental to the war effort. The U.S. has provided approximately $113 billion in security and humanitarian aid to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in 2022.
Russia launched its largest missile attack in weeks on Ukraine, targeting energy facilities. Zelenskiy has been seeking financial help from prominent American billionaires to support Ukraine. The Biden administration has pushed for an additional $24 billion in aid, warning of the potential consequences if Russia gains control of Ukraine and advances towards NATO’s border.
Some Republicans remain unconvinced and question the wisdom of continuing to send funds to Ukraine. However, support in the Senate, from both Democrats and Republicans, remains strong. Biden is expected to announce a new $325 million military aid package for Ukraine.
Congress previously approved assistance to Ukraine when Democrats controlled both the Senate and House. Zelenskiy, who has become a powerful advocate for his country, received a hero’s welcome when he addressed a joint meeting of Congress in December. Solid majorities of Americans support providing weaponry to Ukraine, according to RushHourDaily/Ipsos polling.
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