Zelensky's Surprise Visit to the US: Negotiations to Strengthen Ukraine's Defense Capabilities

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] "We will conduct a series of negotiations to strengthen Ukraine's resilience and defense capabilities." Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine, visited Washington DC, USA, on the 21st (local time). It was his first time leaving the battlefield and visiting a foreign country since Russia's invasion of Ukraine 300 days ago.

According to the Washington Post (WP) and the New York Times (NYT), President Zelensky arrived at the White House in Washington DC around 2 p.m. that day. Arriving in Washington on a U.S. Air Force jet, President Zelensky stated in a Telegram message shortly after, "I express my gratitude to the American people, the President, and Congress for their support, and I came to Washington today to cooperate for victory," adding, "Next year, we must definitely return the Ukrainian flag and freedom to our entire territory and people."

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

U.S. President Joe Biden welcomed President Zelensky at the White House and immediately began a summit meeting. Local media noted the contrast between President Biden's suit and President Zelensky's wartime attire, including a green sweater and cargo pants. The two leaders will hold a joint press conference starting at 4:30 p.m. (6:30 a.m. Korean time). Following this, President Zelensky is scheduled to deliver a joint address to the U.S. Congress at 7:30 p.m. (9:30 a.m. Korean time). It is reported that President Zelensky will once again appeal for support for Ukraine during this event.

This is President Zelensky's first foreign visit since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February. As it is his first time leaving the battlefield, his trip to the U.S. was conducted under extreme security and protection measures. Major foreign media reported that President Zelensky traveled by train to Poland and then boarded a U.S. military transport plane. The transport plane carrying President Zelensky arrived around noon that day at Andrews Air Force Base near Washington DC. A White House official stated, "The possibility of the visit was first discussed during a call between the two leaders on the 11th, and it was only confirmed three days ago on the 18th." President Zelensky is expected to return immediately after his speech at the U.S. Congress.

During this meeting, the U.S. is expected to reaffirm its unwavering support for Ukraine. President Biden announced additional military aid worth $1.85 billion (approximately 2.3 trillion KRW) to Ukraine, including Patriot missiles, coinciding with President Zelensky's visit. This is the first time Patriot missiles, capable of intercepting missiles at long range, are being provided to Ukraine.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.