Zelensky says the US is ‘not funding’ war in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated Sunday that the United States is “not funding” war in his country, emphasizing that the U.S. is helping protect democracy throughout the region.

NBC host Kristen Welker asked Zelensky on “Meet the Press” how long Americans can expect to fund the war in Ukraine, noting that there has been some strong opposition to sending additional aid to the country. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine is doing the fighting and the U.S. is only providing the munitions.

“The Americans are not funding the war in Ukraine. They foremost protect freedom and democracy all over Europe. And Ukraine is fighting. And Ukraine is sending their best sons and daughters to the front line. And this reduces the price for all Europe, for all NATO,” Zelensky said, speaking through a translator.

“It reduces the price for everyone, including the U.S. as the leaders in NATO. U.S. Army now does not have to fight protecting NATO countries. Ukrainians are doing that. And it’s only the ammo that the civilized world is providing. And I think it’s a good decision. That is why we do need to keep supporting,” he continued.

The House approved a massive foreign aid package to send to the Senate on Saturday. The package includes roughly $61 billion for Ukraine, $26 billion for Israel and global humanitarian aid and $8 billion for allies in the Indo-Pacific.

Zelensky urged the Senate to pass the aid package for Ukraine.

“And today, we definitely need this aid. And Kristen, we really need to get this to the final point. We need to get it approved by the Senate. And then we want to get things as fast as possible so that we get some tangible assistance for the soldiers on the front as soon as possible, not in another six months, so that they will be able to move ahead,” he said through a translator.

This story was updated at 6 p.m. on April 22.