📷 Image Credits: The Times of India
In a historic move, President Joe Biden publicly apologized to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a bilateral meeting in Paris for the months-long delay in sending additional U.S. military aid to Ukraine. This marks the first time a U.S. president has offered an apology over such an issue. The delay in aid, which forced Ukraine to ration ammunition and supplies, allowed Russia to gain ground in eastern Ukraine. The apology came after Congress passed a $61 billion aid package for Ukraine, eight months after Biden initially requested it.
During the meeting, Zelensky urged all Americans to support Ukraine against Russia, emphasizing the crucial need for solidarity in the face of the ongoing conflict. Biden reassured Zelensky that the United States stands with Ukraine for the long haul, emphasizing their commitment to provide ongoing support. Zelensky’s plea for bipartisan U.S. support was likened to the allied coalition during World War II, highlighting the importance of unity in the current geopolitical landscape.
The U.S. has pledged to send approximately $225 million in new military aid to Ukraine, which includes munitions for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), mortar systems, an array of artillery rounds, and missiles for the HAWK air defense systems. This additional aid aims to bolster Ukraine’s defenses and capabilities in the face of Russian aggression. These developments signal a significant shift in U.S. policy towards Ukraine, underlining a renewed commitment to supporting the country’s defense efforts.
The meeting between Biden and Zelensky in Paris comes on the heels of their participation in the D-Day anniversary events in Normandy, where they reaffirmed their shared commitment to upholding democratic values and resisting Russian aggression. Zelensky’s efforts to secure international support have garnered positive responses from key allies, including France, which has pledged to provide Mirage combat aircraft and training support to Ukraine. The ongoing collaboration between the U.S., Ukraine, and its allies underscores a unified front against Russian aggression and a determination to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.