Biden Promises Additional $8BN Aid For Ukraine As Zelensky Presents 'Victory Plan' At White House

Zelensky's Visit to the White House

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to urge President Biden to allow Ukrainian forces to target Russia with long-range weapons supplied by the West during his visit to the White House. European leaders, including Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, have increasingly voiced their support for this move. Frederiksen recently stated in a Bloomberg interview that the restrictions on the use of weapons should be lifted without further delay.

Waiting for US Approval

Both Britain and France are awaiting formal approval from the United States to carry out long-range strikes on Russia. However, President Putin's recent comments about lowering the threshold for Russia's use of nuclear weapons are likely being taken into consideration.

Putin's Stance

According to a translation, Putin stated that any aggression against Russia by a non-nuclear-weapon state, with the support or participation of a nuclear-weapon state, should be considered a joint attack on the Russian Federation.

Zelensky's Hope for a Policy Change

In a recent interview with ABC, Zelensky expressed his hope for a change in US policy regarding long-range strikes. He believes that Britain, France, Germany, and Italy are ready to allow the strikes, but the decision ultimately needs to come from the U.S. He stated, "The main role is in the United States, in the president of United States, Biden. Everybody's looking up to him, and -- we need this to defend ourselves."

NATO's Consideration

NATO leadership believes that such a decision would impact the entire alliance, as it would put it more directly on a collision course with nuclear-armed Russia.

New Defense Aid to Ukraine

Just before Zelensky's visit to the White House, the Biden administration announced a massive new defense aid package for Ukraine, estimated at $8 billion. Much of this aid is expected to come from military stockpiles as part of an approved program that the Pentagon said was at risk of expiring on Sept.30. This is likely to include the transfer of an additional Patriot air defense battery to Ukraine.

Biden's Statement

In a statement, Biden said, "I am proud to welcome President Zelenskyy back to the White House today. For nearly three years, the United States has rallied the world to stand with the people of Ukraine as they defend their freedom from Russian aggression, and it has been a top priority of my Administration to provide Ukraine with the support it needs to prevail."

Zelensky's 'Victory Plan'

Zelensky is set to present his 'victory plan' to Biden, VP Harris, and Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. If Biden does not approve long-range strikes on Russian territory, the newly released $8 billion aid could be seen as a form of consolation prize for Kiev.

Trump's Comments

Trump, on the other hand, has criticized Zelensky, calling him "probably the greatest salesman on Earth." He accused Zelensky of refusing to make a deal, despite the billions of dollars that the U.S. continues to give to Ukraine.

Republican Accusations

The disagreement with Republicans has become public this week, with Congressional GOP members accusing Zelensky of campaigning for Harris in battleground states. This accusation is based on Zelensky's tour of the Pennsylvania ammo plant, which was funded by U.S. taxpayers, and his attacks on J.D. Vance. In response, Trump criticized Zelensky at a Wednesday event.

Investigation into Zelensky's Visit

Oversight Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) is investigating whether the administration "attempted to use a foreign leader to benefit Vice President Harris's presidential campaign." He cited Zelensky's use of a U.S. Air Force jet to visit the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant, his meeting with Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, and his comments to the New Yorker as potential evidence. Comer is requesting information and communication about Zelensky's visit from the White House, DOJ, and Pentagon.

Zelensky's Frustration

Zelensky has increasingly expressed his frustration with Washington for not quickly meeting Ukraine's demands. Both Trump and Vance have criticized this 'ungrateful' attitude. It remains to be seen whether Zelensky will leave the White House in anger by the end of the day.

Bottom Line

This situation highlights the complex and delicate nature of international relations, especially when it involves issues of national security and military aid. It's clear that the decisions made by the U.S. and other nations will have far-reaching implications. What are your thoughts on this matter? Do share this article with your friends and sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.