Zelensky to meet with Biden in Washington, D.C.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will meet with President Joe Biden on Wednesday in Washington, D.C., marking his first trip outside of Ukraine since the Russian invasion began on Feb. 24.

The details of the visit remain unfinalized and it could still be cancelled due to security concerns, CNN reported. His arrival comes as the U.S. prepares plans to provide Ukraine with patriot missile systems to combat the Russian invasion. It also coincides with an ongoing congressional debate involving next year's omnibus spending package, which currently includes considerable additional funding for Ukraine.

Should the trip occur, he will likely address the U.S. Congress on Wednesday. Outgoing House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has urged lawmakers to attend, per the New York Post.

Zelensky's reception may be somewhat lukewarm as many Republicans sour on providing the country with additional financial aid in a seemingly frozen conflict that has seen much of the front line remain unchanged since Russian forces withdrew from Kherson in early November.

Russian forces, meanwhile, have dramatically escalated their missile attacks on Ukraine's critical infrastructure and redoubled their assaults on the frontline city of Bakmut, suggesting their is currently little appetite for a negotiated settlement.