Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelensky, is desperate to find a way to win the war and end Russia’s aggression against his country, and Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer announced in a joint letter that he will address members of Congress virtually on Wednesday, asking for assistance.
“As war rages on in Ukraine, it is with great respect and admiration for the Ukrainian people that we invite all Members of the House and Senate to attend a Virtual Address to the United States Congress delivered by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine on Wednesday, March 16th at 9:00 a.m.,” they wrote.
Members of Congress are the only ones who will be able to attend. Lawmakers who have not been completely vaccinated will be required to wear masks in order to attend.
About 300 people from both the House and Senate came to a Zoom meeting with Zelensky earlier this month.
Following the Zoom meeting, the Senate reallocated $13.6 billion to help Ukraine and passed a bill to cut off Russian oil. This week, the Senate is expected to pass another bill to stop regular commercial ties with Moscow.
On the other hand, Zelensky is pressing the United States and the European Union to help implement a no-fly zone.
There is widespread opposition to this proposal by Zelensky among the administration and politicians, who are concerned that a step of that kind could create direct conflict between Russia and the U.S., which might then escalate into a larger war.
The Ukrainian President is also requesting additional aircraft and military equipment to be sent as aid to his country.
“The Congress remains unwavering in our commitment to supporting Ukraine as they face Putin’s cruel and diabolical aggression, and to passing legislation to cripple and isolate the Russian economy as well as deliver humanitarian, security and economic assistance to Ukraine. We look forward to the privilege of welcoming President Zelenskyy’s address to the House and Senate and to convey our support to the people of Ukraine as they bravely defend democracy,” Schumer and Pelosi stated in the letter.
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