Zelenskyy urges U.S.-based Ukrainians to amplify Kyiv’s voice as Washington mulls aid

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska met with members of the Ukrainian community in New York on Sept. 25 and called on them to bolster advocacy for Ukraine at a pivotal moment in U.S. debates over military and financial assistance. 

Speaking at the Ukrainian Institute of America, UWC Vice President Andriy Futey reported that Zelenskyy thanked the diaspora for keeping Ukraine visible abroad and underscored that U.S. support remains vital for Ukraine’s survival and victory against Russia. 

The meeting began, as tradition dictates, with a moment of silence in memory of all those who have died defending Ukraine and its independence against Russian aggression, the Office of the President said.

“I thank you for the fact that Ukraine is heard — we see and hear it. We see respect for Ukraine, we see flags on the streets of the United States of America and other countries. But above all, on the streets of the country that is crucial for us today in its strategic assistance to endure in this war and to win the war for Ukraine’s independence,” Zelenskyy said.

The discussion was moderated by Ukraine’s newly appointed ambassador to the U.S., Olha Stefanishyna.