Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Washington on Wednesday for his first international trip since Russia invaded his country 300 days ago.
Driving the news: Zelensky and President Biden will have an “in-depth, strategic discussion” at the White House about the war, additional U.S. military aid and tightening sanctions on Russia, a senior U.S. official told reporters. The two will then hold a press conference before Zelensky visits Capitol Hill for meetings and to address a joint session of Congress.
- During his D.C. visit — which will last just “a few short hours,” per the U.S. official — Biden announced close to $2 billion in additional U.S. military aid including, for the first time, the Patriot missile defense system.
- Congress is poised to pass $45 billion in additional military and economic aid to Ukraine this week as part of its $1.7 trillion omnibus spending bill, bringing total U.S. assistance to over $100 billion.
Yes, but: Some members of the incoming House Republican majority have expressed deep reservations about continuing to send aid to Ukraine.
- Meanwhile, the Biden administration has also been reluctant to approve shipments of certain weapons Zelensky has requested, such as longer-range missiles, out of concern that could lead to escalation with Russia.
- The visit will be an opportunity for the Ukrainian president to make his case in person that increased support is needed.
