President Joe Biden offered a public apology for the first time on Friday to Ukraine regarding delays in American military assistance, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for increased U.S. support, reminiscent of the aid provided during World War II.
The two leaders were in Paris, attending ceremonies commemorating the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings.
Yael Braun-Pivet, President of the French National Assembly, greets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky with enthusiasm, Friday, June 7, 2024, in Paris. On the right is First Vice-President of the French National Assembly, Valerie Rabault (Julien de Rosa/Pool via AP)
President Biden took the chance to reaffirm that the U.S. is fully committed to Ukraine, emphasizing that the American people stand with Ukraine for the long term. “We’re still in. Completely. Thoroughly,” Biden affirmed.
According to AP reports, Zelensky urged all Americans to back his country’s defense against Russia’s invasion and expressed gratitude towards lawmakers for eventually approving the weapons package.
The U.S. announced it would send around $225 million in military aid to Ukraine, officials highlighted on Thursday.
This latest aid package encompasses munitions for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), mortar systems, and various artillery rounds, according to officials.
