Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated in a speech today that nothing can weaken his country's fight against Russia, following the U.S. Congress's approval of a temporary funding bill that omitted aid for Ukraine. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov separately stated that he received assurances regarding additional military aid during a phone call with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. He wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter), using flags instead of country names, "Minister Austin assured me that U.S. support for Ukraine 'will continue' and that 'Ukrainian fighters will continue to receive strong support on the battlefield.'"
A spokesperson for the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry stated that Kyiv is working with its U.S. partners to ensure the new budget decision includes funds for Ukraine and that U.S. support remains intact. In a pre-recorded address for Defender's Day, Zelensky did not directly address the congressional vote but reiterated his determination to fight until victory. He added that no one can "stop" Ukraine's stability, resilience, strength, and courage. He continued that Ukraine will not cease resistance and fighting until the day of victory, stating, "As we approach it every day, we say: we will fight no matter the cost."
