Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy did not mince phrases when he talked about the specter of Russia’s struggle.

Kholood Eid for NPR

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Kholood Eid for NPR

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy did not mince phrases when he talked about the specter of Russia’s struggle.

Kholood Eid for NPR

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is requesting continued assist from the U.S. amid Russia’s ongoing struggle and rising Republican opposition.

Zelenskyy spoke to Morning Edition‘s Steve Inskeep in New York on Wednesday, forward of his participation in a particular assembly of the United Security Council.

“We have the same values — freedom and democracy — and that is why we are fighting against Russia,” Zelenskyy stated, talking English.

The U.S. gave Ukraine more than $112 billion in humanitarian, monetary and army assist in 2022. But the subject has grown more and more divisive within the second yr of the struggle.

Many Republican lawmakers and voters now imagine such assist ought to come to an finish. An August CNN ballot discovered a majority of Americans say Congress mustn’t authorize extra funding for Ukraine, with divisions alongside occasion strains.

Last month, President Biden requested Congress to approve a further $24 billion in assist, money now stuck in limbo as the federal government works to keep away from a shutdown by the top of the month.

Most Democrats, and even many Senate Republicans, agree that U.S. assist to Ukraine has vital sensible and strategic implications. But many House Republicans are opposed for fiscal and international coverage causes, as NPR has reported.

Zelenskyy burdened that Russia’s struggle will not be restricted to the battlefield.

“They killed our people — woman, man. You saw it,” he added. “They deported children. They are bombing civilians. It’s not about only front lines. It’s not simple war. … Energy systems. Kakhova Dam. Occupied Zaporizhzhia plant — nuclear plant. What is it? What will be next?”

Zelenskyy is not any stranger to creating his case to U.S. leaders — together with in particular person.

He addressed Congress at a special joint session in December 2022, his first go to to the U.S. because the struggle broke out. He additionally delivered an impassioned plea via video in March, weeks after Russia launched its full-fledged invasion.

Zelenskyy plans to journey to Washington, D.C. on Thursday to fulfill with Biden and members of Congress.

NPR’s Ally Schweitzer contributed to this report.