President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine is set to visit Washington DC in a critical attempt to salvage a crucial U.S. defence package worth billions of dollars for Kyiv. The aid has become entangled in domestic, partisan politics in the United States, marking Mr. Zelensky’s third visit to the country since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
This week holds immense importance for Ukraine, as the European Union is also deliberating on whether to initiate formal talks regarding Ukraine’s accession to the bloc. However, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has indicated his opposition to the move and holds the power to block such a decision. The details of Orban and Zelensky’s intense conversation at the inauguration of Argentina’s new president remain undisclosed.
President Zelensky is scheduled to arrive in Washington on Monday, where he will engage in meetings with U.S. President Joe Biden and Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson. Additionally, he is set to address the Senate on Tuesday morning.
The White House issued a statement on Sunday, emphasising that Zelensky’s visit underscores the United States’ unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defence against Russia’s invasion.
However, the $60 billion U.S. military aid package is currently stalled in Congress, facing opposition from Republicans who argue that domestic security at the U.S.-Mexico border should take precedence. A recent Senate vote blocked the package, prompting President Biden to implore lawmakers to approve the funds. In a televised address, Biden emphasised the urgency, warning that Russia would not stop at victory over Ukraine.
While Ukraine successfully repelled Russia’s initial attack, its counter-offensive this year has encountered challenges, and signs of fatigue among Western nations supporting Ukraine militarily have emerged. After the Senate vote, Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska stressed the critical need for continued support, stating that Ukrainians would be “in mortal danger” if Western countries faltered in their assistance.
“We really need the help. In simple words, we cannot get tired of this situation because if we do, we die,” she said. “And if the world gets tired, they will simply let us die.” The visit holds significant implications for Ukraine’s ongoing battle for support amid the complex geopolitical landscape.
Kiki Garba
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