President Biden made an unannounced visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, his first time in the country since the start of Russia’s invasion almost exactly a year ago as he seeks to rally allies ahead of an anticipated Russian offensive.
What Happened
- President Biden arrived in Kyiv at 8 a.m. local time after his departure from the U.S. was shrouded in secrecy.
- The president met with his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, in Mariinsky Palace, in Kyiv.
- During his visit to St. Michael’s Cathedral in the capital, air-raid sirens were heard.
- The trip came in the week of the one-year anniversary of the start of the war and cheered Ukrainians on the streets of Kyiv.
- The visit coincided with the anniversary of the culmination of the Ukrainian revolution in 2014.
- Mr. Biden announced half a billion dollars of additional assistance to Ukraine in a package including more military equipment.
- The U.S. president left Kyiv early afternoon local time.
What Biden Said
- Mr. Biden reflected on the resilience of the Ukrainian resistance as the war enters its second year, noting how the international community initially feared Kyiv would fall in the face of Russia’s Feb. 24 invasion.
- “One year later, Kyiv stands. And Ukraine stands. Democracy stands,” Mr. Biden said. He added that the U.S. would stand with Ukraine “as long as it takes.”
What Happens Next
- Mr. Biden is scheduled to meet with Polish President Andrzej Duda on Tuesday.
- He is then expected to deliver a major speech that aides have said will make the case for continued support for Ukraine.
- The stakes for Mr. Biden, who is ramping up for a re-election bid, are high. He is seeking to manage a shifting world order with a revitalized international community, as support for robust Ukraine aid at home is ebbing.
- On Wednesday, Mr. Biden plans to meet with leaders from Eastern European countries.
Stay with us for coverage of the visit and its ramifications.
