Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke before the US Congress via video link on Wednesday, renewing his push for the imposition of a no-fly zone over the country amid Russia’s military offensive.
Zelensky made an emotional address and referred to some tragic incidents from American history including 9/11 and Pearl Harbor. However, his calls for a “no-fly zone” idea were repeatedly rejected by the US over concerns that it would cause a conflict between Moscow, NATO, and US.
Nancy Pelosi (D.California House speaker) introduced the Ukrainian leader. Pelosi stated that Congress was responsible for ensuring Ukraine’s independence. “great respect and admiration”For him. Pelosi ended the introduction with “Glory to Ukraine!”This slogan is a common one used by Ukrainian nationalists. Zelensky replies. “Glory to heroes!”
“To create a no-fly zone over Ukraine, to save people, is this too much to ask? Humanitarian, no-fly zone – Something that Russia would not be able to [use to] terrorize our free cities,”Zelensky spoke to Congress and asked lawmakers to provide anti-aircraft weapons to Kiev if they are unable to establish a no fly zone.
Zelensky mentioned that Ukraine has a dire need for these weapons. He also mentioned the Soviet-made S-300 rocket systems. While he could not give any details about where to purchase them, several Eastern European states still use the systems.
“If this is too much to ask, we offer an alternative. We all know the type of defense system we require, such as S-300 or similar systems. How much is dependent on how well an aircraft can be used on the battlefield? Powerful, strong aviation to protect our people, our freedom, our land,”He stated.
Zelensky showed a video that purported to depict the Russian military’s destruction and deaths. Joe Biden was also addressed directly by Zelensky. He asked him to make it a truthful statement. “leader of peace.”
“I see no sense in life if it cannot stop the deaths. As the leader and representative of all the great Ukrainians as well as my nation, this is what I care about most. I’m addressing the President Biden: You are the leader of the nation, of your great nation. Your leadership is my wish. Being the leader of the world means to be the leader of peace,”Zelensky concluded his speech in English.
Zelensky’s speech to lawmakers in Washington echoes his address to the Canadian parliament on Tuesday, during which he urged Ottawa to establish a no-fly zone. Zelensky directly appealed for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s use of his. “influence”To push for the controversial idea.
Moscow launched a large-scale offensive against the neighboring state in late February, following a seven-year standoff over Ukraine’s failure to implement the terms of the Minsk agreements, and Russia’s eventual recognition of the Donbass republics in Donetsk and Lugansk. French and German-brokered protocols were intended to regulate the state of regions in the Ukrainian government.
Russia is now demanding that Ukraine declares itself to be neutral, and that it will not join NATO. Kiev maintains that Russia’s attack was not provoked and denies it planned to seize the two republics.
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