During a meeting on the fundraising platform United24, Zelensky emphasized the critical need for congressional support, stating, "It is necessary to specifically tell Congress that if Congress does not help Ukraine, Ukraine will lose the war."
Zelensky underscored the significance of the aid for Ukraine's survival, expressing concerns that Russia's intentions to expand its territorial conquests would escalate if Ukraine did not receive necessary support.
Highlighting the broader implications, Zelensky cautioned that if Ukraine were to lose the war, other states could also face similar attacks from Russia.
Moreover, Zelensky warned that Russia would likely intensify its nuclear rhetoric to dissuade Western allies from providing additional support to Ukraine.
The Ukrainian president has repeatedly urged Congress to pass a funding bill, urging lawmakers to stand firm in their support for Ukraine amidst funding and ammunition shortages.
Zelensky's remarks come as U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson has pledged to bring a vote on aid for Ukraine following months of deadlock, particularly within the Republican-led House of Representatives.
Despite facing dissent from House Republicans, including Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, Johnson expressed optimism about bipartisan support for the aid bill.
However, tensions within the Republican Party remain palpable, with the possibility of a vote to remove Johnson from his position looming if he moves forward with the Ukraine aid bill.
U.S. aid to Ukraine has faced delays since fall 2023 due to disagreements over border security, with some Republicans opposing aid for Kyiv on principle.
In February, the Senate passed a $95 billion aid package, including significant support for Ukraine, with bipartisan backing. (ILKHA)