Zelenskyy urges US to show 'unwavering support' to Ukraine

MOSCOW (AA) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday urged the US to "show unwavering unity" until his country’s territory is fully restored.

Speaking via video conference at a ceremony for the US-based National Constitution Center awarding him a medal, Zelenskyy said: "It is a great honor to be awarded the Liberty Medal. This award really demonstrates how and what Ukrainian people are fighting for. Liberty is the main word for us and what really unites all Ukrainians."

He then thanked President Joe Biden, both parties in the US Congress – Democratic and Republican – and "every American citizen" for their support during Russia’s war on Ukraine, which began this February.

"Please know that you support not just a country or its leader, you support millions of people who, like you, cherish freedom.

"And I urge you to maintain this constant support for Ukraine until the very day when we can fully restore the territorial integrity of our state," he said.

His remarks come amid reports that the US is pushing Ukraine to pursue negotiations with Russia – something Zelenskyy has previously rejected as long as President Vladimir Putin remains in power – as well as Tuesday’s US midterm elections, which may bring to power Republicans, who have voiced skepticism on continuing US aid to Ukraine.