President Biden Apologizes to Zelensky Over U.S. Military Aid Delays, Assures Full Support for Ukraine

President Joe Biden issued a public apology to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday for delays in U.S. military assistance, reaffirming America's full support for Ukraine as it battles Russian aggression. The apology came during a meeting in France following events commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy.

Biden’s gesture followed Zelensky's appeal to all Americans for continued support, irrespective of political divisions. “It’s very important that in this unity, United States of America, all American people stay with Ukraine like it was during World War II,” Zelensky emphasized. “How the United States helped to save human lives, to save Europe. And we count on your continuing support in standing with us shoulder to shoulder.”

Despite months of congressional Republican resistance to a $61 billion military assistance package for Ukraine, Biden reassured Zelensky that U.S. support remains steadfast. “We’re still in. Completely. Thoroughly,” Biden asserted.

The American public, however, remains split on the issue. An April Gallup poll revealed that 36% of Americans believe the U.S. is doing "too much" for Ukraine, while an equal percentage feels the U.S. isn't doing enough. Only 25% think the Biden administration's support is just right.

In April, after a six-month delay, Congress passed a $61 billion aid package for Ukraine, which Biden swiftly approved. Zelensky expressed gratitude for the U.S.'s ongoing support and mentioned working on a long-term agreement with U.S. leaders to secure military, financial, and political backing for the next decade.

As Russia's war against Ukraine surpassed its two-year mark in February, recent offensives in eastern Ukraine underscore the conflict's ongoing intensity. U.S. officials announced an additional $225 million in military aid for Ukraine this week, maintaining America's position as the largest source of military support for the embattled nation, according to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy.

In a notable policy shift, Biden recently authorized Ukraine to use U.S.-provided weapons to strike targets inside Russia for defensive purposes. “The President recently directed his team to ensure that Ukraine is able to use U.S. weapons for counter-fire purposes in Kharkiv so Ukraine can hit back against Russian forces hitting them or preparing to hit them,” a U.S. official stated.

When questioned by ABC News’ David Muir about the use of American weapons inside Russia, Biden clarified, “They’re authorized to be used within proximity to the border. We’re not authorizing strikes 200 miles into Russia. We’re not authorizing strikes on Moscow.”

Biden’s apology and reassurance aim to solidify U.S. commitment to Ukraine’s defense, even as domestic opinions vary and the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve.

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