M. Biden underlined, with M. Zelensky, “US support for Ukraine’s defense continued as Russia continues its assault on critical infrastructure” country, according to a White House statement.
Weapons supplied by the West, especially the United States, have played a crucial role in the defense of Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian invasion.
This call comes as Russian forces target basic public service infrastructure, causing, among other things, power outages affecting millions in the middle of winter.
The White House press release highlights US aid pledges to Ukraine: $53 million for energy infrastructure announced in November and a $275 million endowment in munitions and equipment announced in December.
In a tweet, Zelensky said he thanked Biden during a “fruitful conversation,” adding that he has “discussed continued cooperation in defense and protection and support of our energy sector.”
Washington had announced in early December that the West would not push Zelensky to the negotiating table with Russia, believing that the choice was up to the Ukrainian president.
French President Emmanuel Macron also spoke on the phone with his Ukrainian counterpart on Sunday, particularly to prepare for the new support-Ukraine conference in Paris on Tuesday.
Nearly 500 French companies will be brought together “to meet Ukraine’s critical needs, contribute to the country’s reconstruction, and invest in the long-term potential of the Ukrainian economy”said the Elysium.
