In a photo posted on his Telegram channel, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy speaks at the National Defense University in Washington, on Dec. 11, 2023.
By Smartencyclopedia Staff & Agencies
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy received a standing ovation at the National Defense University in Washington as he addressed U.S. military officers, commencing his visit to the U.S. capital. Zelenskyy’s primary objective is to urge Congress to provide additional military aid to Ukraine before existing funding runs out.
During his speech, Zelenskyy emphasized the significance of defeating Russia in Ukraine, warning that if Russia prevails, Russian President Vladimir Putin won’t stop there. He highlighted Putin’s use of propaganda and disinformation as weapons, expressing concerns that Russia might escalate its actions. Zelenskyy thanked Americans for their support and assured them of Ukraine’s determination not to give up.
The Ukrainian president provided updates on the territorial gains made by Ukrainian forces, stating they had reclaimed 50% of the lost territory to Russia. While acknowledging the resilience of Ukrainian forces on the battleground, Zelenskyy stressed the need to secure victory in the sky.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin affirmed the unwavering support of the U.S. for Ukraine and cautioned against ignoring Kremlin aggression. Austin emphasized that failing to counter such aggression would invite more bloodshed and chaos. He rejected Putin’s belief that he could outlast Ukraine and the U.S., emphasizing that Putin is wrong.
Additionally, International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Kristalina Georgieva is set to meet with President Zelenskyy in Washington, with the IMF executive board preparing to release more funds from Ukraine’s $15.6 billion loan program. The IMF’s positive assessment of Ukraine’s economic resilience amid Russia’s invasion has paved the way for a $900 million disbursement.
President Zelenskyy’s visit includes meetings with Congress and President Joe Biden, who has requested a $110 billion wartime funding package for Ukraine. However, some Republicans are raising concerns and calling for changes to U.S. border security policies. The visit underscores the critical importance of ongoing support for Ukraine as it faces challenges on multiple fronts.
Meanwhile, Russian President Putin inspected two nuclear submarines, highlighting the increased focus on nuclear capabilities in the ongoing conflict. The blockade by protesting Polish truck drivers has partially lifted, easing border crossings between Ukraine and Poland, while challenges persist with Slovak and Hungarian truckers blocking routes to Ukraine.