Joe Biden's White House Invites Volodymyr Zelenskyi for Aid Discussions
American President Joe Biden is set to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi in Washington this Tuesday, aiming to bolster military aid for Ukraine's defense against Russia's invasion. Biden extended an invitation to emphasize the US's unwavering support for Ukraine and discuss potential further assistance.
Zelenskyi also plans to confer with Republican Chairman of the US House of Representatives, Mike Johnson, addressing concerns in Congress over US backing for Ukraine. This marks Zelenskyi's third visit to Washington since the Russian aggression broke out.
Meeting with Lloyd Austin, US Defense Secretary
On the agenda, Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) senior fellow Alexander Kharaqozhi stated, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reassured Zelenskyi of persistent American support for Ukraine. Austin affirmed the commitment to defending freedom in his speech at a military leadership training university. He emphasized the importance of honoring commitments and maintaining America's word.
Russian Invasion and Ukraine's Resilience
Zelensky denounced Russian President Vladimir Putin, claiming he was not solely targeting Ukraine but the entirety of a free and unified Europe. Putin's campaign distorted the lives of Ukrainian citizens and aimed to quell freedom. He reiterated Ukraine's unwillingness to surrender and expressed confidence in the world's solidarity.
Disagreements in US Congress Block US Aid Release
The introduction of fresh US aid for Ukraine faces hurdles due to disagreements within the US Congress. Concurrently, Washington apprehends that funds previously allotted for Ukraine will be insufficient by the year's end.
IMF Praises Ukraine's Governance Leadership
Head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva, commended Ukraine for its economic policy resilience during a meeting with Zelenskyi. Georgieva highlighted Ukraine's commitment to addressing governance and corruption issues, recognizing Zelenskyi's admirable leadership.
Current Russian Assets Blocked by the EU
The European Commission plans to propose the use of frozen Russian assets proceeds. The move stems from the EU-imposed sanctions following the aggressive war, with an estimated €200 billion in Russian assets currently blocked in the EU.
Background
- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio suspended foreign aid, including military, humanitarian, and economic assistance, on January 24, 2025, for a 90-day review period.
- While the suspension affects USAID-administered aid and some Department of State aid, military aid to Ukraine remains unscathed.
Sources:
Enrichment Insights:
- The US has committed about $118 billion to Ukraine since February 2022, including approximately $65 billion in urgent military aid.
- Public opinion in the United States indicates that 30% of American adults believe US support for Ukraine is excessive, while 22% believe it is insufficient, as per a Pew Research Center survey.
