Washington, D.C (Transatlantic Today) – President Joe Biden on Friday for the first time publicly apologized to Ukraine for a monthslong congressional holdup in American military assistance that let Russia make gains on the battlefield.
Biden met in Paris with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who appealed for bipartisan U.S. support going forward “like it was during World War II.”
Appeal for Bipartisan Support
According to Apnews, Zelenskyy used the meeting to appeal for continued bipartisan support from the United States, drawing historical parallels to the unity seen during World War II. He underscored the importance of the U.S. support in Ukraine’s defence against Russian aggression, underlining the need for consistent and reliable assistance.
D-Day Anniversary Ceremonies
The apology was made the day after Zelenskyy and Biden visited the Normandy D-Day landings’ 80th anniversary. Biden drew a clear parallel between the current fight against Russian aggression and the historical alliance effort against Nazi Germany during the festivities. After receiving a standing ovation, Zelenskyy reaffirmed the historical continuity and feeling of shared purpose between previous and current battles.
Congressional Hold-up on Aid
Biden expressed regret for the uncertainty caused by a six-month delay in Congress over a $61 billion military aid package for Ukraine. This delay, largely due to conservative Republican opposition, left Ukraine in a precarious position. Despite this, Biden assured Zelenskyy of the American people’s unwavering support, stating, “We’re still in. Completely. Thoroughly.”
Zelenskyy’s Plea for Support
Zelenskyy stressed the need for continued U.S. support, likening it to America’s critical role in saving Europe during World War II.
Zelenskyy pressed for all Americans to support his country’s defense against Russia’s invasion, and he thanked lawmakers for eventually coming together to approve the weapons package, which has allowed Ukraine to stem Russian advances in recent weeks.”It’s very important that in this unity, United States of America, all American people stay with Ukraine like it was during World War II,” Zelenskyy said.
Ground Conditions and Military Aid
During their meeting, Zelenskyy provided Biden with a detailed assessment of the situation on the ground, particularly in the Donbas region. John Kirby, the White House national security spokesperson, noted that the recent infusion of U.S. aid had helped Ukraine thwart Russian advances around Kharkiv. “The Russians really have kind of stalled out up there,” Kirby said, indicating the effectiveness of the Ukrainian defense bolstered by American support.
New Military Aid Package
Biden announced a new $225 million military aid package for Ukraine that includes artillery rounds and explosives for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS). This package aims to strengthen Ukraine’s defense infrastructure and capabilities, both of which are necessary to sustain resistance against Russian forces. Biden framed the aid as part of a broader effort to “reconstruct the electric grid” in Ukraine, stressing its dual purpose in defense and rebuilding.
Tensions Over Delayed Weaponry
The slow delivery of promised Western weapons has been a point of frustration for Zelenskyy, leading to tension with Biden over concerns about provoking Russian President Vladimir Putin. Despite these concerns, recent developments have seen NATO allies, including the U.S., allowing Ukraine to use delivered weapons for limited attacks inside Russia. This move has drawn a sharp response from the Kremlin, warning that the conflict could escalate further.
France’s Support for Ukraine
French President Emmanuel Macron announced the provision of Mirage combat aircraft to Ukraine and the training of Ukrainian soldiers. At a news conference following his meeting with Zelenskyy, Macron stressed that sending Western instructors to Ukraine is not an escalation but a recognition of Ukraine’s sovereignty over its territory. Macron has been a main supporter of Ukraine and reiterated France’s commitment to aiding Ukraine’s defense.
Bilateral Security Agreements
Zelenskyy’s visit to France included signing defense agreements and reinforcing long-term support through bilateral alliances. Earlier this year, France and Ukraine signed a 10-year bilateral security agreement. Zelenskyy has since secured similar agreements with several European nations, aiming to bolster Ukraine’s defense and ensure sustained international support amidst ongoing Russian aggression.