Zelenskyy Addresses Congress, Gives Lawmakers Ukrainian Flag

After meeting with President Joe Biden at the White House, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed a joint session of Congress. 

Key Quotes: “Your money is not charity,” Zelenskyy told Congress, which is currently considering a budget that includes more Ukraine aid. “It’s an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way.” The Ukrainian leader also praised the “victory” of unifying much of the world against “Russian tyranny.” Addressing the American people, he said, “Now, on this special Christmas time, I want to thank you. All of you. I thank every American family, which cherishes the warmth of its home and wishes the same warmth to other people.” At the end of his speech, he presented lawmakers with a Ukrainian flag signed by front-line Ukrainian troops.

For Context: As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches its eleventh month, U.S. lawmakers are considering additional support for Ukraine. However, some lawmakers have voiced skepticism of the aid; House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), who hopes to be House Speaker when Republicans take a majority in 2023, has said Republicans would not write a “blank check” for Ukraine. 

How the Media Covered It: Coverage was widespread and prominently featured in major outlets of all bias ratings. Coverage was generally positive, with headlines praising his “grit and defiance”; one New York Post (Lean Right bias) opinion headline called him a “hero.” Some coverage from the left highlighted funding issues, and some coverage from the right said he addressed “isolationism” or “Republican critics.”