Zelensky arrives in Washington to try to persuade Congress to provide more aid

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived on Capitol Hill on Tuesday morning to try to persuade Congress to continue to provide aid to prevail in Russia's war against the country.

Congressional Republicans are trying to tie the aid to funding for enhanced border security. 

An all-senators meeting was held in the chamber historic, ceremonial Mansfield Room. 

"President Zelensky made it so clear how he needs help," Senate Democrat leader Chuck Schumer said afterward.

Zelensky is next scheduled to meet with House Speaker Mike Johnson, whose Republican conference has been less eager than their Senate counterparts to continue to provide aid to Ukraine, and House Democrat leader Hakeem Jeffries.

The Hill meetings were scheduled a few days ago, after the White House announced Zelensky would meet Tuesday with President Biden.

Zelensky and other supporters of defending Ukraine against Russia's war argue any delay or curtailment in billions of aid would prevent Ukraine from getting much needed weapons, which will result in imminent defeat. 

Any approval in additional funding, as of now, does not appear likely until after Congress' winter recess.  

Zelensky's trip to Washington will be his third since the war started in February 2022.