Pelosi, Harris Presented With Signed Ukrainian Flag

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ended his address to Congress Wednesday night by offering a Ukrainian flag signed up soldiers fighting on the front lines against Russia's invasion.

"I know that everything depends on us, on Ukrainian armed forces" Zelensky told the joint session of lawmakers before presenting the flag. "Yet, so much depends on the world. So much in the world depends on you."

Zelensky said that the flag was given to him by soldiers fighting in Bakhmut, a city in Ukraine's Donetsk region that has been a focal point of Russia's offense for months. The president previously said during his nightly address to Ukraine on Monday that Bakhmut was currently the "hottest spot on the entire frontline" in the Russia-Ukraine war.

"They asked me to bring this flag to you, to the U.S. Congress, to members of the House of Representatives and Senators, whose decisions can save millions of people," Zelensky said on the House floor. "So let these decisions be taken."

The Ukrainian president handed the signed flag to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris, who were seated behind him. In exchange, Pelosi presented him with the U.S. flag that was flown over the Capitol building "in honor" of Zelensky's visit on Wednesday.

"We stand, we fight, and we will win because we are united," Zelensky said at the end of his speech. "Ukraine, America, and the entire free world."

Zelensky Says U.S. Aid Is An 'Investment'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky assured members of Congress during his speech Wednesday night that the United States' aid to Ukraine was being used in a "responsible way."

"Your money is not charity," Zelensky told lawmakers. "It is an investment in the global security of democracy that we handle in the most responsible way."

The Ukrainian president spoke in front of a joint session of Congress during his brief visit to Washington, D.C., and expressed his gratitude for the U.S. continued support in Ukraine's fight against Russia's invasion.

His visit comes at the same time lawmakers are debating the passage of a more than $1.7 billion government spending bill for the next year, which includes an additional $45 billion in aid to Ukraine.

As of Wednesday morning, a report from the Kiel Institute for the World Economy showed that the U.S. has vowed $48 billion in total aid to Ukraine in 2022 alone.

"Thank you for both financial packages you already provided us with and the ones you may be willing to decide on," Zelensky added in his speech.

"The restoration of international legal order is our joint task," he continued.

Zelensky Gets Rousing Ovation From Congress

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was met with a standing round of applause from lawmakers Wednesday night as he entered the House Chamber to deliver a speech during a joint session of Congress.

The several seconds of cheers continued as Zelensky made his way to the podium while several lawmakers reached out to shake the president's hand.

"It's too much for me," Zelensky joked as he began his speech.

Zelensky spent the first part of his visit to Washington, D.C., meeting with President Joe Biden at the White House before meeting at the U.S. Capitol Wednesday night. His Congressional address began with a note of gratitude for the United States continued support of Ukraine's fight against Russia's aggression, and he assured lawmakers that Ukraine is "alive and kicking."

"The battle is not only for life, freedom and security of Ukrainians, or any other nation which Russia intends to conquer," Zelensky said. "The struggle will define in what world our children and grandchildren will live, and then their children and grandchildren. It will define whether it will be a democracy of Ukrainians and Americans, for all."

How to Watch Zelensky's Speech

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will address a joint session of Congress Wednesday night as part of his visit to Washington, D.C.

The speech, which sources close to the matter told CNN is expected to be "inspiring," can be streamed on CSPAN starting at 7:12 p.m. EST. Zelensky's address is expected to begin at 7:30 p.m.

Zelensky has already met with President Joe Biden as part of his first known trip outside of the Ukraine since Russia's invasion of his country in February. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also issued a welcome for Zelensky's visit to the U.S. Capitol ahead of his speech.

Some Republican members were critical of the Ukraine president's visit Wednesday, as his address to Congress comes as lawmakers debate an over $1.7 trillion omnibus spending package before Friday's deadline, which includes an additional $45 billion in aid to Ukraine.

Pelosi Welcomes Zelensky to Capitol

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi welcomed Volodymyr Zelensky to the U.S. Capitol Building Wednesday evening as part of the Ukrainian president's brief visit to Washington, D.C.

Pelosi said she was welcoming Zelensky to Congress "with great pride." Pelosi acknowledged discussions she had a few months ago about the Russia-Ukraine war's impact on children during an earlier visit to the U.S. by Ukraine's first lady.

"I've told the president again and again that the children, and the war using women as a weapon of war, is something that the Russians are going to have to answer for," Pelosi said.

Pelosi described Zelensky as "brave" and "courageous," and said the "entire Congress" is looking forward "to hearing your message of unity, courage and determination" when Zelensky addresses Congress later Wednesday.

Zelensky's U.S. visit is his first known trip outside Ukraine since Russia began its invasion in late February. This week marks 10 months since the war began.

Zelensky arrived in the U.S. earlier Wednesday and traveled to the White House at about 2 p.m. ET to hold a bilateral meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden. The two leaders later held a joint press conference at the White House.

Zelensky is expected to deliver a speech before a joint session of Congress later this evening. His remarks are scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Zelensky Has 'Good News' for Return Home

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told reporters Wednesday he will be bringing home "good news" when his short visit to the U.S. concludes.

Zelensky thanked U.S. President Joe Biden for the latest U.S. aid package for Ukraine while addressing reporters during a joint press conference at the White House. Biden announced earlier Wednesday that he approved up to $1 billion in additional security assistance for Ukraine, and administration officials said an additional $850 million drawdown announcement would also be coming from the U.S. Department of Defense.

"I have good news returning home," Zelensky said through a translator while at the White House. He said the "strongest element" of the latest U.S. aid package will be the Patriot Air Defense System, which Biden said will become a "critical asset" for Ukraine once Ukrainian troops are trained how to operate the equipment.

Zelensky said the new tool will "strengthen our air defense significantly."

"This is a very important step to create a secure airspace for Ukraine," Zelensky said, adding it was "the only way" to stop Russia from continued attacks on Ukraine's critical civilian infrastructure.

Zelensky said Ukraine and the U.S. have entered a "new phase" of their relationship in the last month. As U.S. defense support for Ukraine continues, Zelensky said "every dollar" will go toward the "strengthening of global security."

Biden Says Putin 'Has No Intention of Stopping'

President Joe Biden said Wednesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin "has no intention of stopping" the "cruel war" it is waging against Ukraine.

Biden's comments about Putin came during a joint press conference he held with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who was in Washington, D.C. for his first known trip outside Ukraine since Russia's invasion of his country began in late February.

Biden noted that this week marks 300 days since the war began. It has been "300 days of Ukrainian people showing Russia and the world their steel backbone, their love of country and their unbreakable determination," he said, adding later that the Ukrainian people have "defied Russia's expectations at every single turn."

Earlier Wednesday, the Biden administration announced an additional $1.85 billion in security assistance for Ukraine. Part of that latest U.S. aid package includes a Patriot Air Defense System, which Biden said will serve as "another critical asset" for Ukraine but will require time for Ukrainian troops to learn how to implement it.

Biden said America's support for Ukraine will continue in the new year.

"The United States is committed to ensuring that the brave Ukrainian people can continue to defend their country against Russian aggression as long as it takes," he said.

If the U.S. and other nations were to "stand by" as Ukraine fights against "blatant attacks on liberty and democracy," Biden said, "the world would surely face worse consequences."

Throughout the war, Biden said European countries have "opened their hearts and their homes" to Ukrainian refugees. For its part, the U.S. has welcomed more than 221,000 Ukrainian refugees since the war began, Biden said.

Red Cross Office in Ukraine Damaged in Shelling

An International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) office in Ukraine's Donetsk region was damaged this week during shelling in the area.

The international organization announced the incident on Wednesday as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was traveling to the U.S. for his first trip outside his country since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began in late February.

The damage occurred on Monday, the ICRC said. A shell "landed in the yard" just outside the office, impacting the building and causing damage to "several vehicles," the ICRC said. No individuals with the organization were injured in the shelling.

Monday's incident marks the third time the ongoing fighting has impacted a facility linked to the ICRC in the last week, the ICRC said. One day before Monday's shelling, a hospital in Donetsk that has support from the ICRC was impacted by fighting nearby, with at least two patients killed and others injured. A Ukrainian Red Cross volunteer in Kherson was also killed last week, according to the ICRC.

The ICRC condemned the Monday shelling and other incidents that have similarly impacted the ICRC and related organizations. The organization said Wednesday it "calls for respect of the humanitarian space, which is essential for neutral and impartial actors to deliver assistance to people affected by the Russia-Ukraine international armed conflict."

Biden, Zelensky Press Conference Begins

U.S. President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are now holding a joint press conference in the East Room.

This comes hours after the two presidents met in the White House. Following this press conference, Zelensky will go to Capitol Hill to deliver an address to a joint session of Congress.

Schumer Calls Visit a 'Day to Remember'

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer predicted Wednesday will be a "day to remember" as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visits Washington, D.C. to deliver remarks before a joint session of Congress.

Schumer addressed Zelensky's anticipated visit to Capitol Hill while speaking on the Senate floor. Schumer opened his remarks by saying he was wearing blue and yellow, the colors of Ukraine's flag, in a gesture of support.

Wearing those colors was "appropriate," Schumer said, because "this will be a day to remember in the history of the United States Congress when we welcome President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine."

Schumer noted that the visit marks the first known time Zelensky has left Ukraine since Russia's invasion began nearly 10 months ago. Schumer said it is "always a high honor" to greet foreign heads of state traveling to the U.S. for a visit, but that it is "nearly unheard of" to welcome "a leader who is fighting for his life, fighting for his country's survival, and fighting to preserve the very idea of democracy."

Zelensky arrived at the White House shortly after 2 p.m. ET, after which he and President Joe Biden held a meeting in the Oval Office. The two leaders are expected to participate in a joint press conference shortly.

Before Zelensky's arrival in the U.S., President Joe Biden announced a drawdown of up to $1 billion in additional defense and military assistance for Ukraine. The U.S. Department of Defense also planned to announce an additional $850 million drawdown on Wednesday, U.S. officials said.

In addition to the security assistance that has already been authorized, Congress may provide other financial support for Ukraine as part of a government funding bill currently under consideration. Schumer addressed this ongoing debate to his colleagues in the Senate.

"Now is not the time—not the time—to take our foot off the gas when it comes to helping Ukraine," he said. "The single worst thing we can do right now is give Putin any signal that we are wavering in our commitment to defend democracy in Ukraine and around the globe."

Biden, Zelensky Holding Press Conference Soon

U.S. President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are soon scheduled to begin a joint press conference following a meeting in the Oval Office.

The press conference is scheduled to begin at 4:30 p.m. ET. It will stream live on the White House YouTube page, or watch below:

Zelensky arrived in the U.S. earlier Wednesday for his first known trip outside his country since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in late February. This week marks 10 months since the Russia-Ukraine war began.

Following his U.S. arrival, Zelensky met with President Joe Biden in the Oval Office for a bilateral meeting. Zelensky planned to discuss "comprehensive cooperation between the two countries, in particular with regard to strengthening the resilience and defense capabilities of Ukraine, supporting its sovereignty and restoring territorial integrity" in the meeting, according to his office.

The press conference will follow their meeting. Three hours after the press conference is slated to begin, Zelensky is scheduled to deliver remarks before a joint session of Congress on Capitol Hill.

Senate Confirms New US Ambassador to Russia

The Senate confirmed the United States' newest ambassador to Russia.

Just before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Washington D.C., senators voted 93-2 to confirm Lynne M. Tracy as the new U.S. Ambassador to Russia.

Tracy, a veteran diplomat, previously served as ambassador to Armenia. She also served as a senior adviser for Russian affairs in the State Department's Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, as the deputy chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow and held several posts in Central and South Asia.

She will take over the role after the death of the previous U.S. ambassador to Moscow, John Sullivan, at a time when U.S.-Russian tensions are high as the war in Ukraine continues.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said Tracy "will be tasked with standing up to" Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The only two "no" votes came from Republican Senators Mike Lee of Utah and Rand Paul of Kentucky.

Zelensky Gives Biden Gift from 'Brave' Soldier

During their meeting in the Oval Office, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave U.S. President Joe Biden a gift from a Ukrainian soldier.

Zelensky visited the frontlines of the war in Bakhmut, Ukraine, Tuesday and met a HIMARS battery captain, who he described as a "real hero."

He said the captain, named Pavlo, asked him to pass his military award and a letter to Biden.

"He's very brave and he said give it to very brave President, and I want to give you, that is a cross for military merit," Zelensky said.

Biden said the gift was "undeserved but much appreciated" and asked Zelensky to bring back a command coin for the captain.

At the top of the meeting, Biden remarked that it is "hard to believe" it has been 300 days since Putin "waged a brutal assault on the Ukrainians' right to exist as a nation and the attack on innocent Ukrainian people for no reason other than to intimidate." Biden assured Zelensky of the United States' continued support for Ukraine.

Zelensky thanked Biden and the American people and said it was "an honor" to be at his side "in the united defense against what is a brutal, brutal war waged by Putin."

Vice President to Attend Zelensky Address

Vice President Kamala Harris will attend an address Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is slated to deliver before a joint session of Congress Wednesday evening.

The Office of the Vice President announced Harris' planned attendance Wednesday afternoon.

Zelensky is expected to deliver remarks before members of Congress at 7:30 p.m. ET. Wednesday marks Zelensky's first trip outside his country since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began in late February.

On Tuesday, U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi urged all members of Congress "to be physically present" for the Wednesday joint session. Her office later confirmed that she invited Zelensky to address Congress during his U.S. visit.

The Ukrainian Embassy in the U.S. said Zelensky's speech will be about 20 minutes long, according to the White House Press Office. He previously delivered a virtual address to Congress in March, shortly after Russia's war with Ukraine began.

Zelensky's trip to the U.S. was first discussed 10 days ago, according to a senior official with President Joe Biden's administration. Zelensky's visit was confirmed a week later on December 18.

Biden, Zelensky Meet in Oval Office

President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are now meeting in the Oval Office of the White House.

Biden said Zelensky and the Ukrainians have "inspired the world" with their courage and resilience during the Russian invasion and mentioned that Zelensky is Time Magazine's Man of the Year. He added that the U.S. will continue to support Ukraine and issue sanctions against Russia.

Zelensky said it was a "great honor" to be at the White House and thanked Biden and U.S. allies for their continued leadership and support.

He gave Biden an award passed along by a Ukrainian officer captaining a HIMARS missile battery. Biden thanked him and said the gift was "undeserved but much appreciated." He also mentioned his late son, Beau, and asked Zelensky to bring back a challenge coin for that soldier.

Biden Greets Zelensky at White House

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived at the White House shortly after 2 p.m. ET for his meeting with President Joe Biden.

Photos and videos captured by reporters covering Zelensky's arrival showed his vehicle pulling up in front of the White House.

Zelensky was then photographed stepping out of the vehicle to shake Biden's hand as the U.S. president stood beside First Lady Jill Biden.

Zelensky also shook the First Lady's hand before the three posed for photos on a red carpet leading to the White House entrance.

Zelensky and Biden chatted briefly before walking between the American and Ukrainian flags to head inside.

The two leaders were later seen strolling through the colonnade of the White House.

Kremlin Says Zelensky Trip Will Impact Peace Talks

Russia warned that increased U.S. arms to Ukraine would escalate the war as President Joe Biden announced a new round of security assistance ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's trip to Washington D.C. Wednesday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia will continue to develop its armed forces and strengthen the capability of its troops, with a special emphasis on developing nuclear forces as as "the main guarantee of Russia's sovereignty."

He also said that Russian military's new Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile will enter service shortly. This is intended to replace old Soviet-built ballistic missiles and form the core of Russia's nuclear forces.

A Kremlin spokesperson said Wednesday that Zelensky's U.S. visit will cause a "deepening" of the ongoing conflict.

According to Reuters, Peskov said Zelensky's visit could negatively impact the possibility of peaceful negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.

"The supply of weapons continues and the range of supplied weapons is expanding," he said. "All of this, of course, leads to an aggravation of the conflict. This does not bode well for Ukraine."

Peskov also replied "no" when asked whether Moscow had any expectations that something positive could come from Zelensky's trip.

Zelensky Thanks Americans for Ongoing Support

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the American people for their continued support in a recent Telegram post.

"I am in Washington today to thank the American people, the President and the Congress for their much-needed support. And also to continue cooperation to bring our victory closer," he wrote.

Zelensky said he will hold a series of negotiations to strengthen the resilience and defense capabilities of Ukraine, including bilateral discussions of Ukraine-U.S. cooperation with President Joe Biden.

"Next year, we must return the Ukrainian flag and freedom to our entire land, to all our people," Zelensky said.

In the post, Zelensky shared images of his arrival in the U.S. at Joint Base Andrews and greeting officials, including Ukraine's Ambassador to the U.S. Oksana Markarova.

McConnell Calls for More International Deliveries to Ukraine

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said the U.S. should be "speeding up" aid to Ukraine as the war with Russia continues.

"Rather than slowing assistance, we should be speeding up international deliveries to Ukraine to help them take back more territory and prepare for wherever they next go on their offensive," McConnell said while speaking on the Senate Wednesday ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's Washington visit.

He said Senate Republicans "pushed hard" to increase the amount of security assistance in this bill, adding that he is "glad our Democratic colleagues came around."

McConnell said the assistance is in America's national security interest, but also its economic interest, as it will bolster U.S. jobs in the defense industry.

"Continuing our support for Ukraine is morally right, but it is not only that. It is also a direct investment in cold, hard, American interests," he said.

The Minority Leader also said he looks forward to welcoming President Zelensky to the Capitol and to "hearing from the Ukrainian people's elected leader at a critical moment in their struggle for their safety and sovereignty against Russia's unhinged aggression."

Zelensky Arrives in US

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in the U.S. for his first known visit outside of Ukraine since Russia's invasion began in late February.

Shortly before 1 p.m. ET, a White House official told reporters that the plane carrying Zelensky had landed.

"President Zelenskyy has landed in the U.S. and events this afternoon are currently tracking on time," according to the White House Press Office.

U.S. President Joe Biden is scheduled to meet with Zelensky at 2 p.m. ET. The two leaders will then hold a bilateral meeting, followed by a press conference scheduled to begin at 4:30 p.m. ET.

Blinken Announces Patriot Missile Transfer to Ukraine

The U.S. State Department announced an additional $1.85 billion in security assistance to Ukraine Wednesday, which includes the first transfer of the Patriot Air Defense System.

President Joe Biden just announced new military capabilities to Ukraine early Wednesday morning, directing the drawdown of up to $1 billion in assistance to Ukraine.

"Pursuant to a delegation of authority from the President, today I am authorizing our twenty-eighth drawdown of U.S. arms and equipment for Ukraine since August 2021," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. "This $1 billion drawdown will provide Ukraine with expanded air defense and precision-strike capabilities, as well as additional munitions and critical equipment that Ukraine is using so effectively to defend itself on the battlefield."

Blinken said today's assistance package will include the the first Patriot Air Defense System, which is capable of bringing down cruise missiles, short range ballistic missiles and aircraft at a significantly higher ceiling than previously provided air defense systems.

The Defense Department is also expected to announce an additional $850 million in security assistance to Ukraine today, Blinken added, bringing the total U.S. military assistance for Ukraine to $21.9 billion since the beginning of the Biden administration.

The latest aid packages come as Russia tries to "weaponize winter by freezing and starving Ukrainian civilians and forcing families from their home."

"We will continue to support Ukraine for as long as it takes, so that Kyiv can continue to defend itself and be in the strongest possible position at the negotiating table when the time comes," Blinken said.

Putin Admits Military Failures, Promises More Funding

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed some of Russia's military problems in Ukraine since invading the country nearly 10 months ago.

On Wednesday, Putin admitted that the partial mobilization of 300,000 reservists did not go as well as he hoped, according to the International Business Times. There was criticism following the announcement, as many men were not physically fit for battle and lack the necessary equipment, the outet reported.

"The partial mobilisation that was carried out revealed certain problems, as everyone well knows, which should be promptly addressed," Putin said.

"I know that the necessary measures are being taken, but still we need to pay attention to this and build this system in a modern way," he added. "First of all, we need to modernize the system of military commissariats."

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Wednesday that the Kremlin plans to increase Russia's military from one million to 1.5 million personnel.

"Given NATO's desire to build up military potential near the Russian borders, as well as to expand the alliance through Finland and Sweden, retaliatory measures are required to create an appropriate grouping of troops in northwestern Russia," Shoigu said.

The Russian Ministry of Defense will be "attentive" to civilian initiative, Putin said, including "taking into account criticism and responding correctly, in a timely manner."

Putin also said there are no financial limitations on government assistance to the Russian army in terms of providing equipment and hardware, IBT reports.

"We have no funding restrictions," he said. "The country and the government are providing everything that the army asks for."

"It is clear that the reaction of people who see problems - and there are always problems in such major, complex work - can be emotional, but we need to hear those who do not hush up the existing problems, but strive to contribute to their solution," Putin said.

The Kremlin also noted that the death and destruction in Ukraine is a "tragedy" but said it is not a result of Russian policy.

"On the contrary, it's the result of the policy of other countries, third countries, who have always striven for this, the disintegration of the Russian world," he said. "To a certain extent they succeeded, and pushed us to the line where we are now."

Biden Approves $1B in Defense, Military Aid

President Joe Biden authorized up to $1 billion in more aid to Ukraine ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Washington, D.C. on Wednesday.

The White House issued a memorandum to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken a couple of hours before Biden was due to greet Zelensky.

The drawdown of up to $1 billion is intended for defense aid and military training, the memorandum said.

"I [Biden] hereby delegate to the Secretary of State the authority under section 506(a)(1) of the FAA to direct the drawdown of up to $1 billion in defense articles and services of the Department of Defense, and military education and training, to provide assistance to Ukraine and to make the determinations required under such section to direct such a drawdown," the memo reads.

As of early November, the U.S. had invested more than $18.6 billion in security assistance for Ukraine since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began in late February, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. The Kiel Institute for the World Economy estimates the total amount the U.S. has invested in aid to Ukraine when taking into account economic and humanitarian assistance is actually closer to $48 billion.

What's the Latest on Russia-Ukraine War?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will make a historic speech before U.S. Congress tonight, as Russia's invasion of Ukraine nears the 10-month mark.

A map released today by the U.K. Ministry of Defence shows areas of Ukraine under Russian control, spanning down the eastern and southern parts of the country.

The Donbas, Crimea and Mariupol are just a few of the areas the latest British intelligence lists under Russian control, depicted in pink.

The map also shows likely axes of advance by Russian forces across the Donbas in eastern Ukraine.

U.K. defense officials said Russian troops recently made "small advances" along eastern Bakhmut, a town in the Donetsk oblast.

"Russian infantry likely now has a foothold in the eastern industrial areas of the town, and at times has advanced into the residential district of the city," UK defense officials said Wednesday. "Street fighting is ongoing."

There have been thousands of reported casualties in Ukraine since the war began in February. At least 6,826 civilian deaths were reported by the United Nations' Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), as of December 19.

Of those who have been killed, more than 400 were children, UN officials said. At least 10,769 other civilians have been injured, with a significant number of casualties recorded in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

"Most" of the deaths and injuries have been attributed to "the use of explosive weapons with wide area effects, including shelling from heavy artillery, multiple launch rocket systems, missiles and air strikes," the OHCHR said earlier this week. However, UN officials continue to warn the actual number of deaths and injuries is "considerably higher" due to delays in reporting.

Nearly 100,000 Russian troops are believed to have died since Russia's invasion began, according to Ukrainian officials. An estimated 99,740 troops were believed to have been lost as of Wednesday, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Ukrainian defense officials also estimate that Russia has lost about 3,000 tanks, nearly 2,000 artillery systems, more than 1,600 drones and hundreds of military aircraft.

Pelosi Lauds Zelensky's Leadership in Invitation to D.C.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi sent a letter to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier this week, inviting him to address Congress Wednesday on behalf of bipartisan Congressional leadership.

In the letter, Pelosi said she extended the invitation "with immense respect and admiration" for Zelensky's "extraordinary leadership."

"In the face of Putin's horrific atrocities, Ukrainian freedom fighters have inspired the world with an iron will and an unbreakable spirit — fighting back against Russia's brutal, unjustified invasion," Pelosi wrote. "During this dark moment, your courageous, patriotic, indefatigable leadership has rallied not only your people, but the world, to join the frontlines of the fight for freedom."

She said the fight for Ukraine is "the fight for democracy itself" and that she looks forward to Zelensky's "inspiring message of unity, resilience and determination."

MTG Blasts McConnell Over Support for More Ukraine Aid

Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia blasted Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell over his support for continued U.S. aid to Ukraine, ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's trip to Washington.

"Mitch McConnell helps pass a nearly $2 TRILLION Onnimonster so that he can hand a $47 BILLION dollar check to Zelenskyy when he shows up in DC today," she wrote in a tweet. "But in my district, many families and seniors can't afford food and many businesses are struggling [because] of Biden policies."

While Greene was mostly referring to the $1.7 trillion government funding package that is expected to pass before the end of the year to avoid a government shutdown, the bill includes about $45 billion in emergency assistance to Ukraine.

This comes after McConnell told reporters Tuesday that "providing assistance for Ukrainians to defeat the Russians" is "the number one priority for the United States right now, according to most Republicans."

Greene said the Republican Party needs to "have a serious talk about supporting any member of our party that betrays us in this manner."

"For, Mitch McConnell, the Republican leader in the Senate to override the upcoming Republican majority and literally steal our responsibility in the House to appropriate spending for nearly half of our upcoming majority, just to help Biden and his retiring Senator friends, this is a betrayal that can NOT be ignored and there must be action taken," Greene said.

Zelensky to Meet with Biden Ahead of Capitol Hill Address

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to arrive in Washington D.C. Wednesday afternoon, his first known trip outside of his country since Russia began its invasion nearly 10 months ago.

Zelensky is current en route to Washington on a U.S. military aircraft.

Here is his schedule during his brief trip to the U.S.:

2:00 p.m. ET: President Joe Biden will welcome President Zelensky on the South Lawn of the White House.

2:30 p.m. ET: Biden and Zelensky will hold a bilateral meeting in the Oval Office.

4:30 p.m. ET: Biden and Zelensky will hold a joint press conference in the East Room of the White House.

6:15 p.m. ET: Zelensky is expected to arrive on Capitol Hill.

7:30 p.m. ET: Zelensky will address a joint session of Congress; he is reportedly expected to leave Washington immediately after.

New US Security Package Includes Patriot Missile

President Joe Biden is set to announce a new security package for Ukraine during his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington D.C. Wednesday.

"President Biden will have the opportunity to reinforce that this support is not just about what we have done before, but what we will do today and what we will continue to do for as long as it takes," a senior White House official told reporters Tuesday.

This includes the announcement of a "significant" new $2 billion security assistance package for Ukraine which contains a "very important" Patriot missile battery. The White House said this capability will be "a critical asset to defend the Ukrainian people against Russia's barbaric attacks on Ukraine's critical infrastructure."

The White House said the U.S. will train Ukrainian forces on how to operate the Patriot missile battery in a third country.

"This will take some time, but Ukrainian troops will take that training back to their country to operate this battery," the official said.

This will come in addition to other forms of air defense support, including NASAMS, HAWKs, Stingers and counter-UAV equipment.

Biden and Zelensky will also have an "in-depth strategic discussion" about the situation on the battlefield, the capabilities and training the U.S. and other allies provide to Ukraine, sanctions imposed on Russia and humanitarian assistance to the Ukrainian people, the White House said.

"It's been simply remarkable to watch how Ukraine, aided by U.S. support and the support of our allies and partners, has bravely defended its country, repelled Russian attacks, and retaken a significant amount of their territory," the White House official said.

This trip was discussed during a phone call between the two presidents on December 11 and Biden officially invited Zelensky to Washington on December 14, according to a senior administration official.

Putin Vows to Raise Nuclear 'Combat Readiness'

Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed Russia will "improve" its nuclear arsenal during a speech in Moscow on Wednesday.

The president was speaking at Russia's Ministry of Defense in Moscow, ahead of an address by defense minister Sergei Shoigu.

"We will continue to maintain and improve the combat-readiness of our nuclear triad," Putin said during his speech. "This is the main guarantee of preserving our sovereignty and territorial integrity, strategic parity, and the general balance of power in the world."

Moscow has repeatedly pointed to its nuclear arsenal since invading Ukraine in February, in a bid to avoid direct western military intervention or the supply of more advanced weapons to Kyiv.

Putin claimed Russia's "strategic enemies" are seeking the country's "disintegration," and suggested post-Soviet countries such as Ukraine are being "brainwashed" by the West.

The Russian leader said he still considers Ukrainians to be a "brotherly people," and blamed the conflict on outside powers.

Shoigu added Russia's "special military operation" will continue into 2023, and proposed raising the draft age for conscripts in a bid to raise more troops.

Visit Shows War is 'Superpower vs Superpower'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to the White House shows the Ukraine war is "superpower vs. superpower," CNN national security correspondent Jim Sciutto said.

The Ukrainian leader is expected to hold talks with President Biden in the Oval Office before addressing a joint session of Congress.

"Zelensky's trip to Washington (his first outside Ukraine since the invasion), his meeting with Biden, and address to Congress tie Ukraine and the US together more indelibly than ever," Sciutto tweeted.

"They are very public allies, confirming the Ukraine war is clearly superpower vs. superpower."

The U.S. has provided Ukraine with more than $50 billion in military, financial and humanitarian assistance since the war began, more than any other country.

Zelensky has vowed to "liberate" all areas of Ukraine currently under Russian control including Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014.

Zelensky Meets With Soldiers in Bakhmut

President Zelensky's Washington D.C. trip on Wednesday comes just one day after he visited Ukrainian troops on the frontline, in the fiercely contested Donbas town of Bakhmut.

During the visit, Zelensky presented bravery awards to Ukrainian soldiers who have been holding the town against Russian attack for several months.

Some of the soldiers presented Zelensky with a signed Ukrainian flag, which they asked him to present to President Biden and the U.S. Congress as a symbol of their gratitude for American assistance against Putin.

Zelensky delivered a speech to the soldiers, who he described as "absolutely heroic people."

"On your shoulders is not defense of the Donbas, but defense of Ukraine," Zelensky said. "I only wish you the strength with which you are surviving and winning. History only remembers the victors, only the strong and the brave."

Pelosi: Zelensky Visit Will 'Bring Honor to Congress'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's upcoming visit will "bring honor to Congress," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said.

"To have a complete, total, hero in the Congress of the United States, fighting for democracy, leading people who are fighting for democracy, will bring honor to the Congress of the United States," Pelosi said Tuesday, after news of the Ukrainian leader's upcoming visit became public.

"I saw him in Kyiv, it was overwhelming to see the courage of the people of Ukraine, their commitment to democracy and fighting Putin's assault on democracy," she continued. "They are fighting for democracy for all of us."

Pelosi visited Kyiv as part of a Congressional delegation in May, with CNN reporting the lawmakers spent "just over three hours on the ground" in the city.

When the House reconvenes in January it will have a Republican majority, following the November midterms. Most GOP lawmakers support providing aid to Ukraine but some, particularly on the pro-Trump right, have been more critical.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene led a group of Republicans demanding a "full audit" of money spent assisting Ukraine last month.

Flight Believed To Be Carrying Zelensky Is Most-Tracked in World

The flight believed to be carrying Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the U.S. is currently the most watched on live tracking site Flight Radar 24.

At present the U.S. Air Force Boeing C-40C is over the Atlantic Ocean, approaching Newfoundland in Canada, having taken off from a military base in Rzeszow, Poland.

Flight Radar 24 speculates it is heading for the Joint Base Andrews in Camp Springs, Maryland, which is frequently used by the U.S. president and visiting dignitaries.

The flight was being tracked online by over 3,600 people, as of 7:30 a.m. ET, making it the "#1 Worldwide" on the site.

According to Flight Radar 24 the aircraft is expected to arrive shortly after 11:00 a.m. ET.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov claimed Zelensky's U.S. visit will lead to an "aggravation of the conflict" in Ukraine.

Zelensky To Address U.S. Congress Tonight

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is due to address Congress tonight, as part of a visit to Washington D.C. that will also include meetings with President Biden and other top officials.

The trip is the first Zelensky has made out of his country since February 24, when Ukraine was invaded by Russian forces on the orders of Vladimir Putin.

Axios reports the Ukrainian president's joint address to Congress is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Planning for the visit, which was organized in secret due to security concerns, began after Biden spoke to Zelensky by phone on December 11.

"On my way to the U.S. to strengthen resilience and defense capabilities," Zelensky tweeted Wednesday morning. "I will also have a speech at the Congress and a number of bilateral meetings."

The White House has confirmed Ukraine will be given additional military equipment including a Patriot missile system, designed for air defense.

Russian missiles and drones have been targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure, in a bid to knock out heating and electricity over the winter.