The Crucial Juncture for Ukraine: Zelensky's Recent Washington Visit Takes Center Stage on Both Battlefield and Capitol Hill
Ukraine's President Zelensky heads to Washington amidst a crucial juncture, with American aid potentially dwindling and stalled assistance talks in Congress The White House emphasizes the significance of this visit, as Putin closely observes the unfolding situation
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to arrive in Washington on Tuesday for crucial talks, as the White House issues a warning that American aid to Ukraine could soon be depleted. Meanwhile, discussions for new assistance are at a standstill in Congress.
President Joe Biden's last-minute invitation highlights the pressing need to approve the new aid package, which amounts to tens of billions of dollars. Both he and other administration officials are emphasizing that the already-approved American aid will run out by the end of the year.
Biden has appealed for approximately $60 billion in new aid for Ukraine as part of a larger emergency funding package that also includes support for Israel and funds for border security. Republicans are trying to use this request as a bargaining chip to push for stricter new regulations on migration across the US southern border.
The Biden administration is hopeful that Zelensky can persuade lawmakers, particularly Republicans, of the need for additional aid to replenish Ukraine's resources for the war. Administration officials have consistently seen Zelensky as an effective advocate for his country, as he has spent the last 21 months since Russia's invasion in February 2022 rallying support by addressing international parliaments, assemblies, summits, and award shows.
During a speech at the National Defense University in Washington on Monday, Zelensky appealed directly for more security aid, highlighting the impact of delays in Congress on Ukraine's ability to defend itself. He emphasized the importance of timely support for soldiers waiting for munitions and the detrimental effects of delays on military operations. Zelensky called attention to the urgency of the situation and urged for immediate action to address the security needs of Ukraine.
"Let's be honest, folks: Putin and his corrupt allies are the only ones benefiting from the gridlock in Capitol Hill. They are emboldened by the delays and scandals, and they relish in the weakening support for freedom fighters." However, the chances of progress in Washington this week seem unlikely, as negotiations to tie new Ukraine aid to stricter immigration rules have reached an impasse.
Congress has already approved over $100 billion in bipartisan support for Ukraine. However, support for Kyiv has decreased in Congress, especially among Republicans aligned with former President Donald Trump. Sen. James Lankford, the GOP's lead negotiator on immigration policy, stated that even if Zelensky spoke to senators, Republican demands to tighten US border laws must be met before more aid is approved for Ukraine.
Lankford dismissed the idea of delaying immigration discussions until the following year, despite Zelensky's urgent appeal for immediate approval of Ukraine aid by Congress.
Zelensky faces the daunting task of persuading doubtful lawmakers that the billions in American aid can make a significant impact on the battlefield, where Ukraine's progress has been slow. Despite a much-anticipated counteroffensive against Russia, there has been little change in the battle lines, disappointing many US and European officials.
Putin is watching, White House warns
US officials spent the run-up to Zelenskys arrival trying to send a warning to lawmakers: Putin is watching Congress.
According to a US official speaking to CNN, the administration observed Russian state TV appearing to "celebrate" the recent failed Senate vote on advancing a supplemental package with billions in additional aid for Ukraine.
"The official added that Putin is closely monitoring developments in Congress and the United States."
The administration has been stressing the urgency of Congress approving more aid for Ukraine's fight against Russia. They also emphasize that the funding issue sends a crucial message to potential invaders on what they can and cannot get away with. "Potential aggressors are closely monitoring the situation," stated the official.
The administration officials believe that Ukraine's president is the best advocate for the country, and they anticipate a visit this week that will be heavy on symbolism. However, they also recognize that the responsibility for resolving the impasse over border policies lies entirely with Congress.
Zelensky's schedule for Tuesday will highlight the divisions on Capitol Hill. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who both strongly support providing more aid to Ukraine, have invited Zelensky to address a meeting of all senators in the morning.
He has not been invited to speak at a similar meeting in the House, where Republican support is much less enthusiastic. He will have one-on-one meetings with GOP House Speaker Mike Johnson, following a similar trip to Capitol Hill where he convinced Johnson's predecessor, Kevin McCarthy, to increase assistance to Kyiv.
Later, Zelensky will have talks in the Oval Office at the White House and participate in a news conference with Biden in the late afternoon.
Biden emphasized the urgency last week, stating that "This cannot wait" as the Senate voted against approving new aid. He expressed astonishment at the current situation, and accused congressional Republicans of jeopardizing global leadership and giving Putin a significant advantage.
White House says its the right time for a visit
The trip to Washington by Zelensky was organized at the last minute late last week, with the final details being settled on Friday, according to a White House official, while lawmakers were still in the process of negotiating over the aid.
Without new approval from Congress for additional aid, US administration officials warn that the country may need to utilize its own reserves, potentially impacting American preparedness. The decision for Ukrainian President Zelensky to visit Washington arose as he was preparing to travel to Argentina for the inauguration of President Javier Milei. US and Ukrainian officials agreed to proceed with the visit to the White House, seizing the opportunity to reinforce the necessity of continued support for Ukraine.
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated on Monday that he believes Zelensky's visit comes at a crucial time. Kirby emphasized that it is the perfect time for Zelensky to visit, citing the heightened activity of the Russian Armed Forces and the ongoing developments on Capitol Hill.
"The meeting with President Zelensky offers an opportunity for the president to receive an update on the situation on the battlefront. It is also important to reiterate our unwavering support for President Zelensky and the Ukrainian people, especially as winter approaches and we witness escalating missile and drone attacks by the Russian armed forces on civilian infrastructure," Kirby stated.
