Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky is on his way to the US this Wednesday for what is his first trip abroad since Russia invaded his country in February, the head of state confirmed on Twitter.
US President Joe Biden also confirmed Zelensky’s visit to Washington. In a statement, the White House said that following the meeting with Biden, the Ukrainian president will address a joint session in the US Congress, where “strong bipartisan support for Ukraine” will be demonstrated.
“On Track for US to Strengthen Ukraine’s Resilience and Defense Capabilities”, began writing Zelensky on the social network. He also reported that he will speak with Biden on “cooperation between Ukraine and the United States” during the meeting, noting that he will speak in Congress, in addition to “several bilateral meetings.”
Towards the US to enhance the resilience and defense capabilities of . In particular, @POTUS and I will discuss the cooperation between and . I will also address the Congress and a number of bilateral meetings.
– Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) December 21, 2022
Zelensky’s visit comes as Joe Biden is expected to announce a new weapons package for Kiev, including Patriot missiles, critical to Ukraine’s defense against Russian missile and drone attacks.
This was communicated to the White House, but without detailing the aid package. 🇧🇷During Zelensky’s visit, President Biden will announce a major new package of security assistance to help Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression.
The US Congress is also about to pass a new bill that includes a package of 44.9 billion dollars (about 42 million euros) to help Ukraine.
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi told members of Congress in a letter Tuesday that they must be physically present for a special session on Wednesday night.
Biden’s invitation to Zelensky made on Dec. 11 phone call
“Please be there for a very special focus on democracy on Wednesday night,” Pelosi wrote, without elaborating.
Later, the Speaker of the House of Representatives issued an open letter to Zelensky inviting the Ukrainian head of state to address Congress.
“It is with immense respect and admiration for your extraordinary leadership that, on behalf of the bipartisan leadership of Congress, I extend an invitation to speak at a joint session of Congress on Wednesday, December 21, 2022,” the letter read.
In addition to the invitation to speak at the convention, Pelosi emphasizes the “heroism of the Ukrainian people”. “In the face of Putin’s horrific atrocities, Ukrainian freedom fighters inspired the world with an iron will and an unbreakable spirit – to fight back against Russia’s ruthless and baseless invasion.”
For Pelosi, “the struggle for Ukraine is the struggle for democracy itself”. “We look forward to your inspiring message of unity, resilience and determination,” stated in the letter to Zelensky.
Zelensky’s discreetly planned visit was discussed during a phone call between the two presidents on Dec. 11, which resulted in a formal invitation.
“President Zelensky’s office formally accepted the invitation last Friday,” after it was “finally confirmed on Sunday,” the White House says.
Zelensky, who has ruthlessly led his country through 10 months of brutal war with Russian forces, has spoken regularly with leaders around the world, but only by phone and video conference. Addressed several parliaments and international organizations from a distance. His wife, Olena Zelenska, visited several foreign capitals to gather support to face the Russian invasion.
Updated
Source: DN
