Blinken visits Ukraine, assures leaders help is on the way

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told Ukrainian leaders Tuesday that U.S. help is on the way, as Russia escalates attacks in the east.

“You are not alone,” Blinken said in remarks at the Kyiv Polytechnic Institute.

That was the message Blinken shared with Ukraine, now more than two years into its war against Russia.

“The United States has been by your side from day one. We are with you today,” Blinken said.

Blinken told leaders U.S. military aid is on the way as Russia pushes further into the east.

“Some of it’s already arrived. More of it will be arriving,” Blinken said.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken rocks out in Ukraine

Congress approved $61 billion last month for the war-torn country after months of delaying a vote.

“And that’s going to make a real difference against the ongoing Russian aggression on the battlefield,” Blinken said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the U.S. for the support.

“Big appreciation from Ukrainians to Americans for this,” Zelenskyy said.

Blinken also voiced support for bringing Ukraine into NATO. He said the U.S. will take “tangible steps” at an upcoming summit this summer.

“We’ll make sure that Ukraine’s bridge to NATO is strong and well lit,” Blinken said.

But in the meantime, Zelenskyy said more help is needed, especially air defense systems in the northeast region of Kharkiv, the second largest city, where Russia is ramping up attacks.

“The people are under attack, civilians, warriors, everybody. They’re under Russian missiles,” Zelenskyy said.

Blinken said the U.S. is trying to address that.

“We’re working relentlessly with allies and partners to procure more air defense, and do it fast,” Blinken said.

Following his remarks, Blinken joined Ukrainian musicians onstage for a rendition of ‘Rockin’ in the Free World.’

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