Zelensky Claims United States Withheld 16 Billion Dollars in Aid

President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine has not received 16 billion dollars in previously agreed-upon assistance from the United States. In an interview with the broadcaster TSN, Zelensky stated that Ukraine must continue to advocate for defense support despite potential irritation in Washington, asserting that the country has no choice but to strengthen its defenses while Russia's full-scale war continues.

Zelensky called on Ukrainian officials to specifically address the withheld funds and urged the government to adapt its diplomatic approach to the shifting U.S. political landscape. He emphasized the need to consolidate existing bipartisan support and establish a new political infrastructure in the U.S. to secure future aid.

According to Zelensky, European leaders have advised Ukraine not to apologize for its requests for military assistance. He maintained that Ukraine must fight and that U.S. officials should not take offense at the country's continued requests for support.