President Joe Biden rolled out the red carpet for Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House on Wednesday, giving him a warm welcome even as some Republicans are unhappy with the Ukrainian president's visit.
Biden, joined by first lady Jill Biden, kept Zelensky close, putting his arm around him to show his support. That demonstration of America's commitment will include $1.85 billion in additional military assistance for Ukraine and a gift of the Patriot Air Defense System, an anti-missile system.
A few GOP lawmakers have said they will skip Zelensky's address to Congress on Wednesday night although Leaders Mitch McConnell and Kevin McCarthy are expected to be there.
Biden, meanwhile, professed his joy at having Zelensky by his side.
'I'm delighted you could make the trip,' Biden said when he welcomed Zelensky in the Oval Office, adding that 'Ukrainian people continue to inspire the world.'
Zelensky came dressed for battle, wearing green military clothing and combat boots - a stark visual contrast to Biden's suit and Jill Biden's light blue dress. The two men sat before a cozy fire in the Oval with portraits of past American presidents looking down on them.
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