Paris, June 8, 2024 —US President Joe Biden expressed regret to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for the delay in sending a critical aid package during a bilateral meeting in Paris on Friday, June 7. 

The Turkish news agency Anadolu Agency reported that Biden apologized to Zelensky for the delay in delivering the necessary aid. He praised Zelensky's resilience, stating, "You did not bow down. The way you keep fighting is amazing. America will never walk away from you."

The United States has been providing military aid to Ukraine since the Russian invasion began. Earlier this year, an important shipment of war equipment was supposed to be sent, but the aid bill was blocked by Republican representatives, causing the delay.

Biden assured Zelensky that more aid is on the way, including $225 million specifically earmarked for rebuilding Ukraine's war-torn electrical grid. He also promised further assistance as needed to support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict.