US President Joe Biden has made a surprise visit to Kyiv and met with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and pledged to support in fighting off Russia’s invasion as the war nears the one-year mark.
His visit marks the first time since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine almost a year ago, demonstrating in dramatic personal fashion his commitment to the country and its struggle as the war enters an uncertain new phase.
Biden announced a half-billion dollars in new assistance, saying the package would include more military equipment, such as artillery ammunition, more javelins and Howitzers. And he said new sanctions would be imposed on Moscow later this week.
“One year later, Kyiv stands. And Ukraine stands. Democracy stands,” Biden said.
Biden’s appearance in Ukraine is a strong indication that the U.S. stands with Zelensky despite growing pressure at home to downsize American aid.
Ukraine is almost marking a year after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched an invasion into neighboring Ukraine.
The two countries are engaged in a struggle for control of areas throughout eastern and southern Ukraine.
