A resurfaced phone conversation between former President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recalls tensions over U.S. military support during the early months of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. According to reports, the call took place in June 2022, a few months after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February of that year.
During this call, Biden informed Zelensky about the approval of an additional $1 billion in U.S. military assistance for Ukraine. However, reports indicate that Zelensky quickly moved on to discuss other demands that had not been fulfilled, which reportedly led to Biden expressing frustration at his lack of gratitude. Sources familiar with the conversation claim Biden raised his voice, urging Zelensky to show greater appreciation for American aid.
This call reveals that Zelensky’s disrespectful attitude, seen during his White House visit last week, is nothing new. Zelensky’s behavior led to him being kicked out of the White House after both President Donald J. Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance referred to the Ukrainian leader as disrespectful.
Since early 2022, the U.S. Congress has allocated significant aid for Ukraine, totaling an estimated $175 billion. The exact figures vary depending on how aid is categorized.
This week, President Trump announced he would be pausing aid to Ukraine, which could have severe effects on the country’s ability to continue its war with Russia. Trump believes Zelensky is unwilling to negotiate a compromise peace because he is being emboldened by U.S. support.