Zelensky lands in Washington, secures new US military aid

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived Wednesday in Washington on his first foreign trip since Russia’s invasion, with US leaders hailing him as “heroic” and pledging to provide new missile defense systems.

Zelensky — whose media savvy and rugged demeanor has helped him rally the world to Ukraine’s cause — landed in a US military plane at Andrews Air Force Base after a trip arranged secretly due to security concerns.

He will meet President Joe Biden at the White House before delivering an address to Congress, which is finalizing a new $45 billion package for Ukraine heading into the new year.

“I’m thrilled to have you here,” Biden tweeted shortly before Zelensky’s arrival. Television footage showed the plane being met by a large convoy on the runway.

Lawmakers compared his trip to Winston Churchill’s Christmas-time appearance in the Capitol in 1941, days after Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor brought the United States into World War II.

“It is particularly poignant for me to be present when another heroic leader addresses the Congress in a time of war — and with democracy itself on the line,” said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a champion of Ukraine whose invitation to Zelensky will be one of her last acts before Republicans take control.

As Zelensky arrived, the United States announced another $1.85 billion from previously budgeted funds for Ukraine, including for the first time the advanced Patriot air defense system, which is capable of shooting down cruise missiles and short-range ballistic missiles.

Ukraine fears a rising onslaught of missiles and has faced a slew of attacks from drones, many bought by Russia from Iran, as Moscow pummels power plants and other civilian infrastructure just as the country shivers in the winter cold.

“We will continue to support Ukraine for as long as it takes, so that Kyiv can continue to defend itself and be in the strongest possible position at the negotiating table when the time comes,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement announcing the aid.

Zelensky while on his way to Washington tweeted that he hoped to “strengthen resilience and defense capabilities” of Ukraine.