President Joe Biden told Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that the United States will support the nation in the challenges facing it from a build-up of Russian troops along its border, Politico reports. Unlike his predecessor, Biden did not couch the declaration in terms of a quid pro quo in exchange for a political favor from the Ukrainian president.
“President Biden made clear that the United States and its allies and partners will respond decisively if Russia further invades Ukraine,“ according to a statement from White House press secretary Jen Psaki. “The leaders expressed support for diplomatic efforts. … He reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.“
The first international talk of the year with @POTUS proves the special nature of our relations,” Zelenskyy said in a tweet.