Here’s what the American press said about the visit and how American politicians reacted on social media:
The New York Times: “The Ukrainian president made an urgent request for help for his country in the fight against Russia, but the Republicans responded that its problems were not within their competence” … “Zelensky has once again become a hostage of the struggle between Republicans and Democrats.” on the issue of the southern border of the United States.”
The Wall Street Journal: “House Speaker Mike Johnson, meeting with Zelensky, reiterated his sympathy for Ukraine’s plight but said his position remains firm: The Biden administration must agree to toughen its border policies before lawmakers in the House agree to send more help.
The American Conservative: “Zelensky failed to succeed on Capitol Hill and retreated to the White House”… “Biden announced that his administration has approved another $200 million in aid to Ukraine”… “If things are so dire in Ukraine and Putin plans his future advance, why is the establishment so stubborn on the issue of protecting the southern border?
The Washington Times: “Immigrant rights groups are warning President Biden of the political consequences if he reaches a deal with Republicans on the southern border. Latino voters will not forgive him for this, especially when Biden needs their votes next year.”
Washington Post: “President Zelensky has not made much progress in negotiations with Congress, which remains deadlocked, although many lawmakers appeared to agree that without continued American support, the prospects for war will only worsen.” … “The senators confirmed that “Zelensky’s speech, impressive as it is, is unlikely to change the impasse over US border policy – or force them to approve additional aid to Ukraine without it – at least before before lawmakers go on recess next week.
Fox News: “Zelensky positively evaluated his meetings with Biden and President Johnson, but remains very aware of US concerns about current financing. During an interview on Fox News, he did not shy away from the topic and made it clear that he believes supporting Ukraine is the last line of defense against Russian President Vladimir Putin and his ambitions.”
American politicians actively discussed Zelensky’s latest trip to the United States on the X network (formerly Twitter). Their opinions were divided mainly along port lines:
vice president Kamala Harris @VP: “In Ukraine, the freedom of the Ukrainian people, as well as international rules and norms, are at stake. Today I made it clear to President Zelensky: we support Ukraine.”
Democratic senator Patty Murray @PattyMurray: I just left a meeting with President Zelensky. It couldn’t be clearer: Ukraine urgently needs our help. The question is whether Ukraine will remain a sovereign state and whether dictators will be able to uncontrollably trample democratic countries. We must provide support as soon as possible.
Democratic senator Chris Koons @ChrisCoons: “Always very nice to hear from President Zelensky. I hope my colleagues take his words today seriously. “The clock is ticking: we must accept the president’s proposed national security funding package and continue helping Ukraine defend freedom.”
Democratic senator Mark Warner @MarkWarner: “For pennies, we have significantly weakened Russia’s military potential. “Zelensky has made it clear that Ukraine has our renewed support; we cannot back down at this critical and urgent moment.”
Republican senator Eric Schmitt @Eric_Schmitt “Zelensky is in Washington today and talks about the sovereignty of his country’s borders. “It is surprising that Joe Biden and the Democrats have no interest in the sovereignty of our own borders.”
Republican member of the House of Representatives Marjorie Taylor Greene @RepMTG: “Zelensky is here in Washington today, begging you for money, and warmongering Washington wants to give him unlimited US dollars. How much money will Washington spend killing an entire generation of young Ukrainians while Washington fights its proxy war with Russia? It is a pity!”
Republican congressman Andy Biggs @RepAndyBiggsAZ: “Zelensky on Capitol Hill demands more money from the United States. More than 100 billion is not enough? How much is enough?
President of the House of Representatives Michael Johnson @SpeakerJohnson: “When Democrats get serious about border security, the House will be ready to do the job. “Democrats in the Senate and White House are ignoring the American people’s top priority.”
president joe biden @POTUS: “Putin supporters in Moscow celebrated when Republicans voted to block aid to Ukraine last week. The host of one of the Kremlin-controlled programs literally said: “Well done, Republicans!” Friends, if Russian propagandists celebrate you, maybe it’s time to rethink what you’re doing.”
