Zelensky evokes the Ukrainian fighting spirit – the USA expect a long war

Washington Emotions erupted the moment Volodymyr Zelensky entered the US Congress. Deputies and senators were ripped from their seats, many rushed to the President of Ukraine, surrounded him and put their hands on his shoulders. In often formal Washington, Zelenski’s visit was unusual – and historic.

Less than 24 hours earlier, the president had visited Ukrainian troops in the embattled Donbas. He had not left Ukraine since the beginning of the war.

In his speech to Congress, Zelensky delivered a message of strength. Russia has “more weapons than we have ever had. But our forces stand. And we’re proud of that,” he said to applause. “Every inch of the Donbas is covered in blood, but Ukraine is resilient. We will never give up.”