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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Ukraine's Zelensky plans US visit -- first trip abroad since war began

Ukraine's Zelensky plans US visit -- first trip abroad since war began

Published Dec 21, 2022 07:24 am

WASHINGTON, United States -Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky plans to visit Washington on Wednesday in his first trip abroad since Russia invaded his country in February, US media reported.

Zelensky is planning to visit the White House as President Joe Biden is expected to announce a new arms package for Kyiv including Patriot missiles, crucial to defend Ukraine against Russian missile and drone barrages, the reports said Tuesday.

Zelensky could also address the US Congress, which is poised to pass a new budget bill with $44.9 billion in fresh aid for Ukraine.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told members of Congress in a letter Tuesday that they should be physically present for a session Wednesday night. "Please be present for a very special focus on democracy Wednesday night," she wrote, without explanation.

Zelensky, who has led his country without rest for 10 months of brutal war with invading Russian forces, has spoken frequently to leaders and supporters around the world, but only by phone and video conference.

But his trip acknowledges that the United States has been the most important supporter of the war effort, already providing some $20 billion in security assistance and more in financial and humanitarian support.

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