AFPZelensky meets with Biden in the Oval Office
NOS Nieuws•vandaag, 01:43
Ukrainian President Zelensky has raised millions in support from the White House, but will still be somewhat disappointed with the preliminary outcome of his visit to Washington. He has to go home without a promise of American ATACMS missiles.
Ukraine has been lobbying for these missiles, which have a range of 300 kilometers, for many months. Kyiv was hopeful that it would work this time, but the White House again did not budge. Security adviser Sullivan did explicitly say that the option remains on the table for the White House.
President Biden emphasized that the US will continue to support Ukraine in the fight against Russia. “I approved new aid today, including more artillery, more ammunition and more anti-tank weapons. And next week we will deliver the first American Abrams tanks.”
Biden also explicitly promised to assist Ukraine with air defense. He recalled that Russia targeted Ukrainian citizens last year with attacks on electricity companies. The White House expects the Kremlin to opt for that tactic again. “The Ukrainian people will have to brace themselves, but we stand by their side.”
Republican restraint
These commitments were overshadowed by the critical attitude of some Republicans in Congress. For example, Republican Speaker of the House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy did not want to make any commitments about aid to Ukraine.
While the Ukrainian president received a standing ovation from the Senate and House last time, this time he was not allowed to address Congress. McCarthy denied Zelensky’s request due to time constraints. Their consultations took place behind closed doors. According to CNN, the House Speaker tried to avoid being photographed with Zelensky.
Some Republicans prioritize domestic projects, McCarthy repeated after the conversation with Zelensky. Because his party has a majority in the House, it can block another request from Biden for $24 billion. However, the president said after his meeting with Zelensky that he trusted the common sense of the opposition party: “There is no alternative.”
2023-09-21 23:43:05
#Zelensky #millions #missiles #asked
