Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky arrives in US

The President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in the United States to meet with the US President Joe Biden, CBS journalist Peter Alexander and Associated Press report.

“A U.S. official confirmed that a U.S. Air Force jet carrying the Ukrainian leader landed at Joint Base Andrews, just outside the capital,” the AP article reads.

Zelensky has confirmed that he is in the US and shared several photos.

“I am in Washington today to thank the American people, the President and the Congress for their much-needed support. And also to continue cooperation to bring our victory closer. I will hold a series of negotiations to strengthen the resilience and defense capabilities of Ukraine. In particular, we will discuss bilateral cooperation between Ukraine and the United States of America with US President Joseph Biden,” Zelensky wrote.

This is Zelensky’s first trip abroad since the start of the war in Ukraine. It was announced this morning. Zelensky and Biden will discuss a new military aid package, which will include a Patriot missile system. During his visit, Zelensky will also address the Congress.

“The President really believes that as we approach winter, as we enter <…> a new phase in this war, of Mr. Putin’s aggression, that this is a good time for the two leaders to sit down face to face and talk,” the strategic communications coordinator at the National Security Council John Kirby told CNN.

Earlier in the day, Joe Biden ordered to provide Ukraine $1 billion in military assistance. In total, the aid package will amount to $1.85 billion. $850 million will be provided by the Pentagon.

“Today’s assistance for the first time includes the Patriot Air Defense System, capable of bringing down cruise missiles, short range ballistic missiles, and aircraft at a significantly higher ceiling than previously provided air defense systems,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken said.