Presidents of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the United States Joe Biden had a telephone conversation. They discussed the consolidation of international efforts to win the war.
Zelensky thanked his American counterpart for the next package of defence assistance, consistent support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, and leadership in consolidating international efforts to counter Russian aggression, the president's website said.
“Volodymyr Zelenskyy outlined the vision of the Ukrainian side regarding further work in this important direction, and came forward with the initiative to convene a Global Peace Summit,” the statement reads.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also informed about the consequences of Russian missile terror, which destroyed about 50% of Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
In this context, Zelenskyy mentioned the assistance provided by the United States to restore the energy system of Ukraine. Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed hope for deepening cooperation in this sphere.
“The President also emphasized the importance of capable air defence. Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on President Biden to do everything possible to help protect the civilian population of Ukraine and its critical infrastructure. This is especially important right now, when the winter period has begun in Ukraine.
Volodymyr Zalenskyy thanked the U.S. Leader for confirming his readiness to support Ukraine as long as necessary, as well as for the clear and consistent commitment of the United States to the principle of sovereignty and territorial integrity of our state within internationally recognized borders,” the website of the Ukrainian President adds.
The White House, for its part, said that Biden emphasized the continued US support for Ukraine's defence.
“President Biden highlighted how the U.S. is prioritizing efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s air defence through our security assistance, including the 9 December announcement of $275 million in additional ammunition and equipment that included systems to counter the Russian use of unmanned aerial vehicles. President Biden also highlighted the 29 November announcement of $53 million to support energy infrastructure to strengthen the stability of Ukraine’s energy grid in the wake of Russia’s targeted attacks,” the US Presidential Administration reported.
Biden also welcomed President Zelenskyy's stated openness to a just peace based on the fundamental principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter. He reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to continue to provide Ukraine with security, economic, and humanitarian assistance, to hold Russia accountable for its war crimes and atrocities, and to impose costs on Russia for its aggression.
The previous phone conversation between the Presidents of Ukraine and the United States took place on 10 October.