White House Says Biden Aims to Gain “Insight from the Frontlines” in Meeting with Zelensky

During his visit to Washington, DC, on Thursday, President Joe Biden is eager to gain a “frontline perspective” from Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, according to the White House.

This visit coincides with President Zelensky’s urgent request for additional aid for his war-ravaged country, while the US Congress remains divided on the course of action. National Security Council coordinator for strategic communications, John Kirby, stated that President Biden will reaffirm US support by emphasizing that the United States will stand with Ukraine for as long as necessary.

Kirby also mentioned that Biden will engage in discussions with Zelensky regarding Ukraine’s specific weaponry requirements. Nevertheless, there are reports that the long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) may not be included in a new weapons package, which Zelensky suggested would be disappointing. Kirby clarified that ATACMS is still under consideration, and discussions within the interagency are ongoing, with no final decision yet.

In a broader context, Kirby stressed the “critical need” for Congress to approve the White House’s $24 billion supplemental funding request to enhance Ukraine’s counteroffensive capabilities. He expressed strong opposition to Republican lawmakers questioning continued US assistance to Ukraine and urged them to directly engage with the Ukrainian president.

Kirby warned against the potential costs, both in terms of lives and resources, if the United States were to abandon Ukraine, allowing Russia to seize control. He emphasized that such an outcome would empower Russian President Vladimir Putin and pose a direct threat to NATO territory.

The visit’s itinerary includes President Zelensky meeting with lawmakers on Capitol Hill and discussions at the Pentagon. Zelensky is expected to engage with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley, and other leaders. Following these engagements, President Biden and President Zelensky will convene in the Oval Office, followed by an extended bilateral meeting in the Cabinet Room. Kirby noted that this meeting will have an “air of familiarity” as the two leaders have met in person six times and maintained regular communication.