Ukraine 'alive and kicking' Zelenskyy tells US Congress
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Washington: Exactly 300 days after Russian troops invaded Ukraine, Zelenskyy addressed a joint meeting of the US Congress on Wednesday.
Zeleknskyy, who received standing ovation from senate members, said Ukraine did not fall but alive and kicking.
Ukrainian President’s address of the Senate aims at persuading Republican lawmakers to continue release funds for Ukraine’s defence against Russia, Reuters reported.
"It is a great honor for me to be at the US Congress and speak to you and all Americans against all doom and gloom scenarios, Ukraine did not fall. Ukraine is alive and kicking," Zelenskyy reportedly said.
In a vigorous show of solidarity with Ukraine, three members held up a large Ukrainian flag during the ovation.
Zelenskyy’s visit comes at a time when some of US lawmakers including Republicans were skeptical of continuing to fund Ukraine’s defence.
Zelenskyy is now among the list of world leaders who have previously addressed joint meetings of the Senate and House.
The tradition of world leaders addressing the house began in 1874 which saw statesmen like Winston Churchill addressing the members.
An official reportedly said that the planning for Zelenksyy’s visit began in October when Nancy Pelosi met with Ruslan Stefanchuk, chairman of Ukraine's parliament.
Meanwhile, reports said that Congress was on the verge of approving an additional $44.9 billion to Ukraine to meet its military and economic needs.