Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken visited Kyiv to reaffirm American support for Ukraine and celebrate the $60 billion aid package signed by President Biden. This trip marks Mr. Blinken’s fourth visit to Kyiv since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. The visit comes after Congress passed the aid package following delays and infighting among House Republicans. Mr. Blinken plans to deliver a speech highlighting American aid and portraying Russia’s failed attempt to take control of Ukraine as a strategic success for the country.
During his visit, Mr. Blinken will stress the importance of Ukraine continuing to make progress on democratic governance and anti-corruption reforms in order to integrate with the West. The delayed U.S. arms aid had left Ukraine’s military vulnerable along the eastern battlefront, where Russia has made recent gains near the city of Kharkiv. Despite this setback, the official stated that Ukrainians had held their positions and were inflicting casualties on the Russians. With the influx of U.S. assistance, they are likely to make gains against Russian forces.
Mr. Blinken is scheduled to meet with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky and other top officials during his visit. The visit is the first by a senior Biden official since the aid package was passed. While a second U.S. official did not disclose whether Russia was notified in advance of the visit, Russian forces have continued to attack Kyiv with missiles and drones. The White House national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, had met with Mr. Zelensky in late March before the aid passed.
Speaking at an event hosted by The Financial Times, Mr. Sullivan expressed confidence that despite short-term gains by Russia, the new U.S. aid would enable Ukraine to “hold the line” and eventually begin reclaiming territory. The visit by Mr. Blinken underscores the unwavering support of the United States for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. By highlighting the importance of continued progress in democratic governance and anti-corruption reforms, the U.S. aims to strengthen Ukraine’s position for integration with the West. The visit also serves as a reassurance to Ukraine that American support remains steadfast in the face of Russian aggression.
