KYIV, Ukraine - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed certainty that the United States will fulfill its promise to provide billions of dollars in further aid to support Ukraine's ongoing battle against Russia. In a candid response during an end-of-year news conference in Kyiv, Zelenskyy firmly denied the possibility of his country losing the war.

Despite facing challenges and expending Western military hardware in a counteroffensive that failed to significantly impact the 1,000-kilometer (600-mile) front line, Zelenskyy asserted that Russia had not achieved any of its goals in the past year. He dismissed suggestions that Moscow's forces had emerged victorious after mostly fending off Ukraine's efforts and intensifying military production.

However, the United States Congress has adjourned for the holidays without finalizing a deal to allocate approximately $61 billion in aid to Ukraine. The U.S. Defense Department also revealed that it is running low on funds to assist Kyiv after supporting them for over 22 months of conflict. Furthermore, the European Union's plan to provide $54.5 billion in support to Ukraine has been delayed until the new year due to a veto from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

Zelenskyy expressed confidence in the United States, stating, "I am confident that the U.S. will not let us down and that what we have agreed upon will be fulfilled." Western backing plays a vital role in Ukraine's fight against Russia, as the latter still maintains a military advantage in terms of firepower and troop numbers.

The international community will be closely watching as Ukraine's plea for assistance continues. The fulfillment of promised aid is crucial for Ukraine's efforts to defend itself against its larger and better-armed neighbor. With the United States being the largest contributor of support, the successful delivery of aid will have significant implications for Ukraine's future in its ongoing conflict with Russia.