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Ukraine’s Zelensky holds phone call with Biden

25.08.2022 22:00
Ukraine’s president on Thursday spoke on the phone with his US counterpart, saying afterwards that the conversation focused on the next steps in the war against Russian aggression. 
Volodymyr Zelensky.
Volodymyr Zelensky.PAP/EPA Mykola Tys

Volodymyr Zelensky announced his call with Joe Biden on Twitter, Polish state news agency PAP reported.

Ukraine’s head of state tweeted: “Had a great conversation with the U.S. president. Thanked for the unwavering U.S. support for Ukrainian people – security and financial.” 

“We discussed Ukraine’s further steps on our path to the victory over the aggressor and importance of holding Russia accountable for war crimes,” Zelensky added.

During the call, Biden restated US support for Ukraine and congratulated the war-torn country after it marked its Independence Day on Wednesday, according to White House officials.

The US president tweeted about the conversation:

The White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters: “The President reiterated the United States support for Ukraine as they defend themselves from Russian aggression, including yesterday's announcement of nearly $3 billion in weapons and equipment.”

She added that Biden “congratulated Ukraine as it marked a particularly significant Independence Day this week and shared his admiration for the people of Ukraine and its armed forces, as they continue to inspire the world with their dedication and freedom.”

Jean-Pierre also noted that Biden and Zelensky discussed the situation at the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, the US broadcaster CNN reported.

The White House press secretary reiterated the US administration's position that “the area should not be an active war zone,” according to CNN.  

During the call, the two leaders "called for Russia to return full control of the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant to Ukraine and for International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) access to the plant," the White House said.  

Thursday was day 183 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. 

(pm)

Source: PAP, Reuters, edition.cnn.comwhitehouse.gov