Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the US Capitol to strengthen ties with lawmakers crucial for future US aid to Ukraine, particularly amidst concerns over the potential return of former President Donald Trump after the upcoming November 5 election.
During his visit, Zelenskyy met with leaders from both the Senate and the House of Representatives, as well as members of key committees dealing with defense, spending, diplomacy, and national security. The discussions focused on securing continued American support for Ukraine, which has been a cornerstone of US foreign policy under President Joe Biden but faces uncertainties under a potential Trump administration return.
Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Mark Warner emphasized the importance of standing by Ukraine during this critical period. Zelenskyy also awarded the Order of Merit of Ukraine to Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell and held discussions with a bipartisan group of senators, followed by a meeting with House Speaker Mike Johnson, a close ally of Trump.
While Johnson expressed interest in visiting Kyiv, he noted the tight schedule leading up to the election, where Republicans are aiming to maintain or expand their majority in the House. Concerns over Biden's recent debate performance and public approval have added complexity to discussions about US foreign policy, including aid to Ukraine.
Despite past hesitations among some Republicans aligned closely with Trump, recent bipartisan efforts in Congress have supported substantial aid packages for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression. Zelenskyy has called for continued and expanded US support, urging American political leaders not to delay assistance pending election outcomes.
In summary, Zelenskyy's visit underscores Ukraine's strategic importance in US foreign policy discussions and the ongoing challenges in maintaining bipartisan support for aiding Ukraine amidst shifting political landscapes.
