Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived at the White House for talks with President Joe Biden as the wartime leader paid his first visit overseas since Russia's invasion
Mr Zelensky, wearing brown military fatigues rather than a suit, was driven to the White House where Mr Biden, joined by his wife Jill, put his arm around his shoulder before escorting him past doors where guards held the US and Ukrainian flags.
"Today's assistance for the first time includes the Patriot Air Defense System, capable of bringing down cruise missiles, short range ballistic missiles, and aircraft at a significantly higher ceiling than previously provided air defense systems," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.
Mr Zelensky said the visit was meant to strengthen Ukraine's"resilience and defence capabilities" amid repeated Russian missile and drone attacks on the country's energy and water supplies in the dead of winter. He will hold a meeting with Mr Biden at the White House at 2.30pm local time, participate in a joint news conference with the US president and then go to Capitol Hill to address a joint session of the US Senate and House of Representatives."Clearly we're going to make sure that President Zelensky, when he leaves this country, knows that he's leaving with the full support of the United States going forward," he told MSNBC in an interview ahead of Mr Zelensky's arrival.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Ukraine president plans US visit, his first trip abroad since war beganZelensky is planning to visit the White House as President Joe Biden is expected to announce a new arms package for Kyiv.
Read more »
Zelensky to seek 'weapons, weapons and more weapons'Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is on the way to Washington to meet US President Joe Biden, address Congress and seek 'weapons, weapons and more weapons' in his first overseas trip since Russia invaded Ukraine 300 days ago.
Read more »
Zelensky planning visit to US in first trip abroadUkraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky plans to visit Washington tomorrow in his first trip abroad since Russia invaded his country on 24 February, US media reported.
Read more »
Zelensky hands out medals on surprise frontline visitUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a surprise visit to troops in one of the most battle-scarred parts of his country, a town which has been the target of a Russia strategy nicknamed the 'Bakhmut meat grinder'. He also renewed calls for more weapons following ongoing drone attacks.
Read more »
Zelensky to meet Biden, address US CongressUkraine President Volodymyr Zelensky will visit Washington today for talks with US President Joe Biden and to address Congress in his first known trip abroad since Russia invaded his country on 24 February.
Read more »