Washington, D.C. - As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Washington for a brief visit, he delivered a speech at a defense university, warning that Russia's fight in Ukraine is a mere facade, with its true target being the freedom of America and the world at large. He made a personal appeal to Congress to break its deadlock and approve continued support for Ukraine.

During his time in the U.S. capital, Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet with President Joe Biden at the White House on Tuesday, as well as with Congress. The visit is part of the Biden administration's eleventh-hour efforts to convince lawmakers to pass a supplemental funding bill, as officials emphasize the urgency of the situation with Ukraine's funds running out.

President Biden has requested $61.4 billion from Congress for wartime funding for Ukraine as part of a $110 billion package that also includes funds for Israel and other national security priorities. However, the request has become entangled in a debate over U.S. immigration policy and border security. It is worth noting that the U.S. has already provided $111 billion to Ukraine for its fight against Russia's 2022 invasion.

Zelenskyy addressed military leaders and students at the National Defense University, declaring, "If there's anyone inspired by unresolved issues on Capitol Hill, it's just (Russian President Vladimir) Putin and his sick clique. Ukrainians haven't given up and won't give up. We know what to do. And you can count on Ukraine. And we hope just as much to be able to count on you."

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who introduced the Ukrainian president, emphasized America's unwavering commitment to Ukraine, highlighting how supporting the war is crucial for the security of the United States and its allies. Austin stated, "America's commitments must be honored. America's security must be defended. And America's word must be kept."

As Congress approaches its final week before the holiday recess, questions loom about whether Republicans can reach an agreement on future funding rounds for Ukraine or Israel, without concessions from the White House on border security in light of the surge in illegal crossings. However, any border package also risks alienating some Democrats.

This marks Zelenskyy's third visit to Washington since the war began, and he made his appearance at the National Defense University wearing his trademark Army green long-sleeve shirt with the bold imprinted words, "I'M UKRAINIAN." Yet, his lobbying efforts have become increasingly challenging, transitioning from a hero's welcome in the Capitol last year to a bitterly divided Congress this year.

Zelenskyy commemorated the fact that 82 years ago on that day, the U.S. entered combat in Europe when then-President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the declaration of war against Germany. Drawing a parallel to the current conflict in Ukraine, Zelenskyy acknowledged that while the U.S. does not have troops on the ground, it has been providing vital weapons and equipment.

"Every one of you here understands what it means for a soldier to wait for ammunition, waiting for weeks, months without knowing if support will come at all," Zelenskyy expressed to the university audience. "When the free world hesitates, that's when dictatorships celebrate."

In terms of funding, the Defense Department disclosed that approximately $4.8 billion remains in presidential drawdown authority, which allows weapons to be pulled from existing U.S. stockpiles and sent expeditiously to the war front. Additionally, about $1.1 billion is left in funding to replenish U.S. military stockpiles.

White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby emphasized the critical nature of Zelenskyy's visit, given the ongoing situation in Ukraine and the increased activity of Russian armed forces as winter approaches. Kirby affirmed that President Biden would convey to Zelenskyy his firm stance on the need for the supplemental budget request to be approved. Meanwhile, top officials from the Office of Management and Budget, National Security Council, and White House legislative affairs have continued to advocate for the funding.

As tensions persist and the clock ticks closer to Congress' recess, the fate of additional funding for Ukraine remains uncertain. It remains to be seen whether Republicans and Democrats can find common ground to support Ukraine and address border security concerns in a manner satisfactory to all parties involved.