Biden and Zelensky Announce Enhanced US Support for Ukraine US President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met in Washington D.C. on Wednesday, January 18, 2023, to discuss the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. The meeting resulted in the announcement of significant new US support for Ukraine. Enhanced Military Aid: * Biden pledged to provide Ukraine with an additional $1.85 billion in military assistance, including: * Bradley Fighting Vehicles * Stryker Armored Personnel Carriers * Hellfire missiles * HIMARS multiple rocket launchers * The US will also provide Ukraine with Patriot air defense systems, which can intercept ballistic missiles. Economic and Humanitarian Support: * Biden announced a new $1.2 billion economic aid package for Ukraine, aimed at stabilizing its economy and addressing infrastructure damage. * The US will also provide an additional $250 million in humanitarian assistance to support Ukrainian civilians affected by the war. Diplomatic Initiatives: * Biden and Zelensky emphasized the importance of international cooperation in supporting Ukraine. * They discussed efforts to hold Russia accountable for its aggression and to seek a diplomatic solution to the conflict. Strengthened Defense Cooperation: * The US and Ukraine signed a Joint Declaration on Enhanced Defense Cooperation. * The declaration outlines a framework for ongoing defense collaboration, including training, exercises, and weapons transfers. Message of Unity and Resolve: * Biden and Zelensky reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. * They condemned Russian aggression and called for an end to the war. The announcement of this new support package represents a significant commitment from the US to help Ukraine defend itself and rebuild its nation. It sends a clear message that the US stands firmly behind Ukraine in its struggle for freedom and independence.Zelensky Expresses Confidence in Continued US Support for UkraineZelensky Expresses Confidence in Continued US Support for Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky believes that future US leaders will continue to support Ukraine in its fight against Russia. Speaking at a press conference ahead of a meeting with US President Joe Biden, Zelensky said, “They work based on the voice of their people and it is impossible without people.” “I am sure that this nation elects leaders and presidents… and it seems to me that no matter who the nation elects, first of all, it seems to me that everything depends on the unity within this or that state, and whether the people are with us,” he added. “With us, any leader will be with us in this fight for freedom.” Zelensky and Biden are expected to sign a security agreement between their two countries on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Italy on Thursday. The agreement is an “executive agreement,” making it less formal than a treaty and not necessarily binding on future presidents. Former US President Donald Trump has previously promised to end the war in Ukraine if he is re-elected. However, he has not provided any details on how he would achieve this.President Biden and Ukrainian President Zelensky met virtually, with Biden announcing a significant new package of military assistance for Ukraine and additional sanctions on Russia. The package includes the provision of Bradley Fighting Vehicles, which provide increased protection and firepower to Ukrainian forces. Biden emphasized the ongoing commitment of the United States to Ukraine’s defense and sovereignty. Zelensky expressed his gratitude for the assistance and stressed the need for continued international support to counter Russian aggression. The sanctions announced by Biden target Russian individuals and organizations involved in the war effort, including those supporting the Wagner Group, a paramilitary organization fighting alongside Russian forces.