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Ukraine’s president thanked “every American family” in an emotional but defiant address to the US Congress on Wednesday aimed at countering growing skepticism over US military aid as Kyiv’s war with Russia drags into the new year.
It was Volodymyr Zelensky’s first overseas trip since Moscow launched the full-scale invasion on Feb. 24, a ruthless offensive that has upended the global economy and led to widespread destruction and death.
Entering the House chamber, where members are expected to pass another massive Ukraine aid deal later this week, Zelensky was met with a thunderous standing ovation.
A handful of Republicans strongly aligned with former president Donald Trump, who have expressed concerns over the US support for Ukraine, notably refused to applaud.
“On this special Christmastime, I want to thank you, all of you. I thank every American family which cherishes the warmth of its home and wishes the same warmth to other people,” he told lawmakers who had given him a lengthy standing ovation as he walked into the House chamber.
The conflict has begun to recede from the headlines in the United States, with no end to the fighting in sight and Republicans who take over the House of Representatives in January showing signs of weakening resolve.
In what was billed by US media as the most important speech of Zelenskyy’s career, he told a joint meeting of the House and Senate his country would never surrender, adding: “Ukraine is alive and kicking.”
But he urged lawmakers—many of whom were dressed in the blue and yellow of the Ukraine flag—to do more for his nation through the brutal winter months, pleading for more weapons and financial aid.
