Zelensky in the US: "Patriot strengthens Ukraine's defense... Will not compromise"

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who made a surprise visit to the United States, stated on the 21st (local time) that the 'Patriot missile system' supported by the U.S. will greatly strengthen Ukraine's air defense capabilities. While expressing concerns about the prolongation of the war, he also emphasized that Ukraine's sovereignty and territory should not be compromised solely for the sake of 'peace.'

After concluding a summit with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House on the afternoon of the same day, President Zelensky attended a joint press conference and said, "Next year, our fight for freedom and independence will advance," adding, "There is good news on the way home. It is a new military aid package worth about $2 billion announced by President Biden."

Wearing 'wartime attire' such as an olive-colored sweater and cargo pants, he said, "The most powerful element of this package is the Patriot missile system, which can greatly enhance our air defense capabilities," evaluating it as "a very important step in creating safe airspace for Ukraine." He also added, "It is the only way to prevent the terrorist state (Russia) from attacking Ukraine's energy, civilians, and infrastructure."

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

The U.S. government announced additional military aid worth $1.85 billion (about 2.3 trillion won) to Ukraine in line with President Zelensky's visit. Notably, the Patriot missile, capable of intercepting missiles at long range, was included in the support list for the first time. The Patriot missile, with a range of 70 to 80 km, can shoot down enemy aircraft and missiles at high altitudes, making it an item that the Ukrainian government has continuously requested support for.

President Biden also confirmed this additional support policy at the event, emphasizing, "The Patriot missile will be a key asset in Ukraine's defense." However, he added that training for operating the system would take some time.

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

On the same day, President Biden stated, "Russian President Vladimir Putin has no intention of ending the war," and emphasized, "We will continue to support Ukraine." He condemned, "Russia's attacks are expanding to energy and civilian infrastructure," and said, "Putin is trying to use winter as a weapon." He also explained the background of the meeting, saying, "I thought it was important for Americans and the world to hear directly about Ukraine's struggle and the need for unity in 2023," revealing concerns about the prolongation of the war.

When asked about 'peace,' President Zelensky replied, "As president, a just peace is not a compromise on our country's sovereignty, freedom, and territorial integrity, but retribution for all those harmed by Russia's invasion." He added, "I want to emphasize how many parents have lost their sons and daughters on the front lines." When asked what message he would like to send to President Putin, he retorted, "What message would I send to someone who has destroyed all our lives?"

President Zelensky's visit to the U.S. came 300 days after Russia invaded Ukraine. This is the first time since the war began that President Zelensky has left the battlefield to visit a foreign country. After the summit, President Zelensky is scheduled to deliver a joint address to the U.S. Congress at around 7:30 p.m. that day. It is expected that he will express gratitude for U.S. support and once again request backing for Ukraine during this address.

Earlier, after arriving in Washington aboard a U.S. Air Force jet, President Zelensky expressed his gratitude through a statement released on Telegram, saying, "I came to Washington today to thank the American people, the president, and Congress for their support and to cooperate for victory," and added, "Next year, we must definitely return the Ukrainian flag and freedom to our entire territory and people."

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