House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s address to Congress this week “powerful” and said Congress would send Ukraine additional aid while remaining opposed to a NATO-enforced no-fly zone over the country.
Zelensky has repeatedly asked Western leaders to establish a NATO-enforced no-fly zone to deter attacks from Russian President Vladimir Putin’s forces, reiterating that call in his Wednesday address.
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Pelosi told reporters at the Capitol Wednesday that the position of the United States remains unchanged after the address.
“They know,” Pelosi said of Ukrainian officials, noting Zelensky requested alternatives on that knowledge. “We are, however, prepared to supply Ukraine with very sophisticated equipment.”
The U.S. and other major powers have so far declined the request in part, as it would place U.S. troops in direct conflict with Russia in Ukraine, escalating the conflict and leaving the U.S. at war with a nuclear power.
In his Wednesday address, Zelensky acknowledged hesitation in establishing a NATO no-fly zone and asked for other military aid instead.
“If this is too much to ask, we offer an alternative,” he said, including additional aircraft and anti-aircraft weaponry, adding Congress knows the defensive systems the country needs.
Pelosi said what Zelensky is actually seeking is “a result,” which is why he asked for an alternative.
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After the address, President Joe Biden announced an additional $800 million in aid to Ukraine amid the conflict.
