The diplomatic conference between U.S. President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy conveyed joint determination between the presidents–a silver lining for Ukrainian citizens. With the ongoing unjustifiable attacks from Russian invaders, times for Ukraine can seem despairing, especially considering the absurd prospect of the war ending soon. 

But there is promise, according to President Joe Biden, speaking on behalf of the United States asserting to Zelenskyy, “we will stay with you for as long as it takes.”

Nonetheless, as Ukraine still remains aloof from NATO, Biden must continue to be cordial with Russia. So even while Biden attempts to supply Ukraine with protection, he must remain mindful of a limit, in regard to a potential deleterious Russian effect. In other words, the U.S. may provide assistance to Ukraine with weapons, as long as the weapons do not withhold the risk of challenging the United State’s relationship with Russia. 

Russia was addressed further in the meeting, with Biden evaluating the true meaning of winter for Russia.

“It is purposely attacking Ukraine critical infrastructure, destroying the system to provide heat and light (to) Ukrainian people during the coldest, darkest part of the year. Russia is using winter as a weapon, freezing people, starving people, cutting them off from one another,” Biden stated.

While Zelenskyy addressed the prominent conflict between Ukraine and Russia, primarily Zelenskyy remained focused on the purpose of the conference: to articulate the powerful joint stance of Ukraine and the U.S.

Joe Biden even spoke on behalf of Zelenskyy, decisively asserting to reporters, “we share the exact same vision, and that a free, independent, prosperous and secure Ukraine is the vision — we both want this war to end.”