Thu Sep 26 14:41:20 UTC 2024: ## Zelensky Visits White House, Biden Pledges $8 Billion More for Ukraine
**WASHINGTON** – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a surprise visit to the White House today, where he met with President Joe Biden and addressed Congress. During the visit, Biden announced a new $8 billion military aid package for Ukraine, bringing the total US support to over $113 billion since the start of the Russian invasion.
Zelensky, during his address to Congress, presented a “victory plan” for Ukraine, which is expected to include a push for greater Western military support, including long-range missiles capable of striking targets inside Russia. He also urged continued financial assistance for the war-torn nation.
The visit comes as Ukraine continues to battle Russian forces in the eastern Donbas region, with fierce fighting reported around the city of Bakhmut. Zelensky’s trip to the US is seen as a crucial step in securing continued Western support for Ukraine’s defense efforts.
While the Biden administration has so far avoided providing Ukraine with long-range weapons capable of striking targets inside Russia, citing concerns about escalating the conflict, Zelensky’s visit could lead to a shift in policy. The Ukrainian president is expected to lobby for greater military support during his talks with Biden and members of Congress.
Zelensky’s visit to Washington, his first since the Russian invasion began, marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict. It underscores the deep ties between the US and Ukraine and highlights the importance of continued international support for Ukraine’s struggle against Russia.
First Piper 