Zelensky Urges Congress in Washington Not to Play on Putin's Field

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during his visit to Washington on Monday to strengthen security relations, told U.S. military members that he hopes to continue counting on U.S. assistance and urged Congress not to 'play on Vladimir Putin's field.' According to Reuters, Zelensky highlighted the resilience of Ukrainians and their determination to defend their country, stating, 'We will not surrender. We know how to fight, and you can count on Ukraine. We hope just as much that we can count on your support.' Recently, U.S. President Joe Biden also warned Congress that failing to extend military aid to Ukraine could turn the two-year war's outcome in favor of Russia and pose a threat to national security and the West. At the same time, in an indirect reference to partisan disagreements in Congress over allocating aid to Ukraine, Zelensky said, 'It is essential that politics... does not betray the soldiers.' The Ukrainian President added, 'Friends, let me be honest with you, the only one who has gained more motivation from unresolved issues in Congress is Putin and his sick entourage.' While Zelensky has been invited to meet with members of Congress, many Republican lawmakers have questioned the continuation of U.S. aid to Ukraine. With billions of dollars in military and intelligence support from the United States, Ukraine was able to prevent Russia's initial attempt to seize the country, but Kyiv has been unable to break through Russian defensive lines in a major counteroffensive this year, and Russia is now preparing for an attack in eastern Ukraine. During his continued visit to Washington, Zelensky will meet with President Joe Biden and House Speaker Mike Johnson on Tuesday. This is Zelensky's third trip to the U.S. since the start of the Ukraine war. Ukraine claims to have shot down 'eight ballistic missiles' from Russia. The European Union has sanctioned six individuals and five entities in connection with the Islamic Republic's drone assistance to Russia. The continuation of U.S. support for Ukraine; Joe Biden has invited Zelensky to the White House.