Ukrainian President Zelenski's diplomatic push in Washington
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenski embarked on a diplomatic tour to Washington, responding to the invitation extended by the U.S. President Joe Biden.
The visit commenced with a meeting on Monday, December 11, between President Zelenski and U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. Scheduled for Tuesday are crucial discussions with President Biden and American congressmen.
Zelenski's diplomatic mission aims to garner international support, as Western backing faces challenges. Tensions have escalated with Hungary, blocking €50 billion in EU assistance and the accession process, and the U.S. Congress, suspending over $100 billion in war funds for Ukraine and Israel, with $61 billion allocated for Kiev.
President Biden, in a bid to exert pressure on Congress, extended the invitation to Zelenski, emphasising the urgency of the funding. "This funding can no longer wait," stated Biden recently. Consequently, Ukrainian President Zelenski is set for discussions on Tuesday, December 12, with his American counterpart and the Republican Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson. Additionally, Zelenski will address the Senate.
A week ago, Republicans had narrowly blocked war funds for Ukraine and Israel, advocating a reevaluation of migration policies in exchange.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
