In a speech to Congress, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is “alive” and “will not surrender”.
Mr Zelenskyy received a standing ovation when he entered the chamber to give what he called his “speech for Americans”.
“In spite of all the doom and gloom scenarios in the world, Ukraine didn’t fall.” He said that Ukraine was still alive and well.
“We defeated Russia” in the war for the minds of the globe.
He promised that there would be no compromises in trying to end the war, and vowed that Ukraine “will not surrender”.
According to Mr Zelenskyy, aid to Ukraine is not charity but an investment in global democracy and security.
He stated that the conflict was a test of democracy around the world and would determine the future direction of the world.
He said, “This struggle will determine in what world their children and grandchildren will live and then their grandchildren.”
The flag was presented by Bakhmut’s defenders to the US Congress, which he visited Tuesday.
Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House of Representatives, presented Mr Zelenskyy with a folded and framed American flag. It had flown earlier that day over the Capitol.
Joe Biden, the President of the United States, stated earlier that the US would continue to support Ukraine’s fight against Russia “for as long as it takes”.
He spoke out in support of further military assistance at the White House and stood next to Mr Zelenskyy at a podium.
He said, “Americans are ready to stand up to bullies and stand up for freedom.” We are that way.
Biden stated that Ukraine had “defied Russia’s expectations at all turns” and continued: “The American people will be with you every step and we will remain with you…for as long as it takes.”
He added, “Together, we will keep liberty’s flame burning bright.”
Mr Zelenskyy thanked America and its people for their support. He referred to the Patriot surface-to air missile defense system as a “dollar of this investment by the US will be strengthening global security.”
“This is the only way we can deprive terrorist state of its main weapon of terror – it’s ability to hit our cities and our energy,” Mr. Zelenskyy stated.
Biden stated that the Patriot system was “defensive system. It’s not escalatory. It’s defensive.”
Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State and President of the United States, had previously stated that $1.85bn (PS1.53bn), would be provided in additional military aid to Ukraine. This includes the transfer of the Patriot system.
The Ukrainian president stated that the country’s defense capabilities would be enhanced in the next months, but he did not provide further details. He also said that Russia must be held responsible for its actions.
was asked by a reporter to explain his message to the American people. He replied: “My message: I wish you peace.
“To be with us, because together we fight against this tyranny… we will win. And I want to win with you. Sorry, I don’t want… I’m certain.”
Zelenskyy said that the war would be over once Ukraine’s sovereignty and freedom are restored. He also stated that Russia will pay back all damages.
An earlier fireside reception at the White House saw Mr Zelenskyy present Mr Biden with a medal originally awarded to a Ukrainian army captain for bravery. He said that he wanted it to be given to the US president for his support of Ukraine.
After receiving the medal, Mr Biden stated: “Oh God Love You… Undeserved but Much Appreciated.”
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This highly sensitive trip comes after 10 months of brutal warfare that saw tens of thousand of casualties on both side and destruction for civilians in Ukraine.
Shortly after his arrival in the USA, Mr Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram about his determination and desire to win the war against Russia. He said: “Next Year, we must return Ukraine’s flag and freedom to our entire country, to all of our people.”
As part of its defense against an invasion from Russia, the United States has sent $50bn (PS41bn), to support Kyiv’s government. This was 10 months ago.
Sky News was told by Leigh Turner, a former UK ambassador to Ukraine that Mr Zelenskyy is primarily motivated to reduce fatigue in support countries for what could become a “long, grinding war”.
He stated that: “At first, everyone was supporting Ukraine. Every Western government and every British citizen were strongly supporting Ukraine. They provided arms and took in refugees to their homes.
“Ten months later, winter is drawing in, there are many other crises… even some US lawmakers mostly of the Republican Party have been voting against increasing aid to Ukraine.”
Biden stated that he wasn’t worried about sustaining an international coalition supporting Ukraine. He also said that he has never seen NATO or the European Union more united.
“I don’t see any sign of change.” He said that everyone knows what is at stake.