President Biden Greets Zelensky at the White House, United States Will Send Abrams Tanks and Air Defense

JAKARTA - President Joe Biden assured President Volodymyr Zelensky that the United States would maintain its support for Ukraine to fight the Russian invasion, despite several objections from Republican lawmakers.

Receiving the visit of the Ukrainian leader, President Biden invited him to hold a meeting in the East Room, White House, Washington D.C.

"Mr President, we are with you, we remain with you," said President Biden to President Zelensky, reported by Reuters, September 22.

President Zelensky thanked President Biden for a new $325 million military aid package of weapons and air defense, saying "it has what our soldiers need right now."

He further said that he and President Biden agreed on specific steps to expand wheat exports from Ukraine, in the face of the Russian blockade and tensions with neighboring Poland. However, he did not detail the steps.

It is known that President Biden's request to increase Ukraine's funding by 24 million US dollars to help finance Ukraine's defense and humanitarian aid until the end of this year was stalled due to tough budget discussions with hard-line Republican groups in the US House of Representatives (DPR).

When asked how to overcome opposition, President Biden said the only way was to get approval from the US Congress.

"I rely on the good judgment of the United States Congress. There is no other alternative," he said.

On this occasion, President Biden said that the United States would start sending Abrams tanks to Ukraine next week. In addition, Washington will also send additional Hawk air defense batteries.

"Together with our partners and allies, the American people are determined to do everything we can to ensure that the world stands with you," said President Biden.

President Zelensky also appreciated Uncle Sam's help and support to fight Russian terror.

"Today I am in Washington to strengthen our ability to defend Ukraine's children, our families, our home, freedom, and democracy in the world," he said.

It is known that so far the United States has sent around 113 billion US dollars in security and humanitarian assistance to help the Zelensky government since Russia invaded in February 2022.