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US President Joe Biden has warned Russia that the United States will not abandon Ukraine, promising to provide President Volodymyr Zelenskyy with full support. During Zelenskyy’s visit to the US, Biden pledged $200m in weaponry to help Kyiv push out Russian forces. The security package includes about $61.4bn for Ukraine as well as support for Israel and is currently stuck in Congress. Republicans have been hesitant to approve the military aid plan, and Biden warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin would receive a “Christmas gift” of victory if the aid is not approved.

Zelenskyy appealed directly to Republican lawmakers during his visit to lay out Ukraine’s plans for victory against Russian forces. He emphasized that supporting Ukraine’s fight is essential for preserving freedom and safety in Europe. Despite the resistance from some Republicans, Zelenskyy remains focused on action rather than words.

The Kremlin has claimed that previous aid sent to Ukraine has not made a difference on the battlefield, and Russia has intensified drone and missile attacks on multiple regions of Ukraine. The US has said that Russia believes a military deadlock through the winter will weaken Western support for Ukraine, but Russian troops have suffered heavy casualties since the war began.

Zelenskyy firmly dismissed any suggestions that Ukraine would be willing to give up some of its land as part of a peace deal, calling the idea “absolutely insane.” He emphasized that the land in question is home to Ukrainian people and is not something to be given away lightly.

Zelenskyy’s visit comes at a critical time as Russia continues its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The $200m in military aid from the US and Biden’s promise of full support to Zelenskyy are seen as critical steps to push back against Russia’s aggression and support Ukraine’s efforts for victory.

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Photo credit www.aljazeera.com