In brief
In a pivotal address, President Zelensky emphasizes the need for unity and sustained support against the ongoing Russian incursion.
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine made an earnest appeal on Thursday to representatives from approximately 50 allied nations to uphold their military support for Ukraine as it continues to endure a grueling war with Russia that has now persisted for nearly three years. “It would be unthinkable to slacken now,” he declared during the opening of the 25th gathering of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group at the U.S. air base in Ramstein, Germany.Zelensky highlighted that a significant “new chapter” will soon unfold for Europe and the global landscape with the upcoming inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald J. Trump, raising concerns over Trump's previously expressed skepticism regarding ongoing assistance to Ukraine. “This is a moment filled with opportunities and a chance for renewal, particularly in the context of our long battle,” he stated.The president’s remarks come just 11 days ahead of Trump’s swearing-in ceremony on January 20, 2025. Zelensky emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “We must build upon the progress we have made and further fortify the coalitions we have established.”During the conference, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin unveiled a new military aid package worth $500 million intended for Ukraine, a segment of the ongoing support pledged by the Biden administration, which aims to ensure that essential military resources continue to flow to Ukraine amidst the evolving political landscape in the U.S.
