President Joe Biden will meet with Ukrainian colleague Vladimir Zelensky in France this week in a tense situation between two governments. Kyiv has disappointed military assistance and criticism of Ukraine's anti -corruption efforts.
Relations between the US and Ukraine have reached the lowest point since the Russian invasion in 2022. Both sides recognize existing problems, but have a common goal - to protect Ukraine from Russian aggression.
The presidential meeting will take place after the White House has abolished restrictions on the use of the US Army of US weapons to strikes in a restricted territory in Russia. This decision, although not fully meet the requirements of Kiev, was made under the pressure of Zelensky and European governments.
Biden administration approaches caused disappointment in Kiev and Congress. Republicans believe that the restrictions on the use of US weapons should be lifted by Ukraine earlier.
Baiden's absence at the International Summit organized by Ukraine has further aggravated relations. Zelensky expressed his hope for Baiden, but the event will be held with the participation of other American officials.
The issue of corruption in Ukraine has become a source of differences, and American diplomats and government officials demanded from the Zelensky government decisive action. According to current and former government officials, Ukrainian officials are especially annoyed because of this issue with the US Ambassador Bridget Brink.
Ukraine believes that Zelensky has made significant progress in the fight against corruption, financing the Special Prosecutor's Office and the Anti -Corruption Court. Some Ukrainian officials claim that the US Ambassador has created unnecessary tension and lost its main priority from view - victory on the battlefield.
Baiden's administration called for further reforms, transparency and accountability as the necessary steps for Ukraine to enter the European Union and NATO.
American officials have recognized tensions in relations with Ukraine through efforts in the fight against corruption. They noted that recent permutations in the Main Anti -Corruption Office of Kiev are an example of a constant need for reforms.
The Brink Ambassador has full assistance and support from the Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and the President. Key US legislators also strongly support the administration campaign to conduct corruption reforms.
During this week, Brink should inform lawmakers and Congress staff about the situation in Ukraine in Washington.
Blinken noted the efforts of civil society in Ukraine to fight corruption and create a government that reflects the will of citizens. He urged Ukraine to continue the fight against corruption as decisively as with Russian aggression on the front line.
A press conference showed a complex dialogue between two governments on corruption. During the same visit, Blinken caused dissatisfaction with some Ukrainians when playing guitar with a local group in Kiev at a time when Ukrainian soldiers and civilians died and lost their positions in the fight against Russian troops.
