Addressing the nation on the somber occasion of Ukraine entering its third year of conflict with Russia, President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a plea for continued support from the United States.
Speaking at the “Ukraine. Year 2024” conference in Kyiv, Zelensky underscored the devastating toll of the war, lamenting the loss of over 31,000 Ukrainian troops and countless civilians in occupied territories.
The Ukrainian president’s address the stark reality facing his country, emphasizing the urgent need for assistance to confront and repel Russian aggression.
“To understand it, is to come to the front line to see what’s going on, to speak with the people, then to go to civilians to understand … what will (happen to) them without this support. And he will understand that millions (of) people … will be killed. It’s a fact,” Zelensky said.
With tensions escalating and attacks persisting, Zelensky stressed that Ukraine has “no alternative” but to stand firm against its aggressor, calling for unwavering solidarity from its allies.
In response to skepticism regarding the effectiveness of increased aid, particularly from Republican US Senator J.D. Vance, Zelensky passionately defended the necessity of additional support. He warned that without adequate assistance, the consequences would be dire, with “millions” at risk of losing their lives in the ongoing conflict.