Zelensky to America: "Russian tyranny has lost control over us"

• "Your money is not charity, it's an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way," Zelensky said, thanking Congress for its past and future support.
• "Russia could stop its aggression ... but you can speed up our victory," he said.
• Near the end of his remarks, Zelensky presented House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Harris with a flag signed by Ukrainian soldiers.

Earlier on Wednesday, President Biden announced $1.8 billion in additional military aid for Ukraine during the Zelensky visit.

• During a news conference following their meeting, Biden said Zelensky was "willing to give his life for his country," adding: "I think it's important for him to know we are going to do everything in our power to see that he succeeds."
• The aid package Biden announced includes, for the first time, the Patriot missile defense system.
• Congress is poised to pass $45 billion in additional military and economic aid to Ukraine this week as part of its $1.7 trillion omnibus spending bill, bringing total U.S. assistance to over $100 billion.

What they're saying: Biden said he and Zelensky shared "the exact same vision: a free, independent, prosperous and secure Ukraine." He said his priority for now is to help Ukraine succeed on the battlefield so that it can also succeed in the eventual negotiations to end the war.

• "I am standing here on the same podium as the president of the United States," Zelensky said. "For me, this is a historic moment," and one that sends a clear signal to Russian President Vladimir Putin, he added.
• Zelensky also said that "regardless of changes in Congress, I believe that there will be bipartisan, bicameral support" for Ukraine.

Between the lines: Some members of the incoming House Republican majority have expressed deep reservations about continuing to send aid to Ukraine — though GOP congressional leaders have remained split on the issue.

• Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell in a statement Wednesday reaffirmed his support for Ukraine and Zelensky. “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,” the Kentucky Republican said.

• Meanwhile, the Biden administration has also been reluctant to approve shipments of certain weapons Zelensky has requested, such as longer-range missiles, out of concern that could lead to escalation with Russia.

Biden has also been unwilling to provide long-range missiles and other advanced systems requested by Ukraine.

• Asked why during the press conference, Biden said sending such systems would risk dividing the NATO alliance and undermining global support.
• America's European allies recognize the need to support Ukraine, Biden said, "but they're not looking to go to war with Russia, they're not looking for a third world war."
• Biden said he has no concerns about a rupture in Western support for Ukraine heading into the new year.

Of note: Prior to their meeting, Zelensky presented Biden with a military commendation that he said had come from a "real hero" — a captain in the Ukrainian military who operates a U.S.-provided HIMARS rocket launcher.

• Zelensky said he had presented the commendation to the captain during his visit Tuesday to the town of Bakhmut on the front lines, but the captain said it should go to Biden for his support.

Editor's note: This story has been updated with additional details throughout.