Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed members of Congress by video on Wednesday morning, directly calling out President Joe Biden in his conclusion to “be the leader of peace.”
Zelensky’s message to America’s lawmakers called on the U.S. to “do more” to help bring peace to Ukraine following three weeks of violent invasion from Russia.
“In the darkest time for our country, for the whole Europe, I call on you to do more. New packages of sanctions are needed, constantly, every week until the Russian military machine stops. Restrictions are needed for everyone on whom this unjust regime is based,” Zelensky said.
The Ukrainian president also restated his desire for a no-fly zone over his nation, referring to past American tragedies such as 9/11 and Pearl Harbor.
“To create a no-fly zone over Ukraine, to save people, is this too much to ask? Humanitarian, no-fly zone — something that Russia would not be able to [use to] terrorize our free cities. If this is too much to ask, we offer an alternative. You know what kind of defense systems we need, as 300 and similar other systems. You know how much depends on the battlefield, on the ability to use aircraft. Powerful, strong aviation to protect our people, our freedom, our land,” he said.
Zelensky also called on Congress to challenge American companies to stop doing business with Russia.
“All American companies must leave Russia from their market, leave their market immediately, because it is flooded with our blood. Ladies and gentlemen, members of Congress, please take the lead, if you have companies in your districts who finance the Russian military machine leaving business in Russia, you should put pressure. I’m asking to make sure that the Russians do not receive a single penny that they use to destroy people in Ukraine,” Zelensky said.
Some of Zelensky’s strongest words were saved for the conclusion of his remarks. Speaking in English, he challenged Biden with the words, “Being the leader of the world means to be the leader of peace.”
The White House has reported plans to release an additional $800 million in military funding following Zelensky’s speech. The new commitment is in addition to $200 million announced on Saturday for Ukraine.
Indiana Republican Sen. Mike Braun shared a statement with The Daily Wire following his attendance at Zelensky’s speech.
“Today we heard from President Zelensky about his people’s fight for their freedom, and the U.S. must continue to help them repel the Russian invaders with lethal defensive aid and economic sanctions that cripple Russia’s ability to fund this war and isolate them from the world economy,” Braun wrote.
“United States and NATO military leaders must be reminded to take every precaution to avoid escalations that will result in war with Russia and American soldiers being put in harm’s way,” he added.
This is a developing story. Updates may be added.
Full remarks are below. Warning: Video contains graphic images.