President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine's Economic Recovery Penny Pritzker, who visited our country for the second time. The delegation from the United States also included representatives of leading U.S. financial institutions.
The Head of State expressed gratitude to U.S. President Joseph Biden, Congress, and the American people for providing robust defense, financial, economic, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted the significant role of Penny Pritzker in coordinating international partnerships to support Ukraine in implementing reforms, reconstruction projects, and further strengthening the Ukrainian economy.
"Your new visit to Ukraine demonstrates strong support. The past year has seen unprecedented growth in Ukrainian-American relations. We are determined to maintain this momentum, as it significantly aids Ukraine in our defense against the aggressor," said the President.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy placed a particular emphasis on the substantial support that the United States provides to ensure the reliable operation of Ukraine's energy sector. Considering the ongoing missile terror against our state, the importance of strengthening air defense to protect cities, domestic export routes, and critical infrastructure was emphasized.
During the meeting, the issue of ensuring macro-financial stability in Ukraine was raised.
"We are grateful to the President of the United States for submitting to Congress a budget request for providing Ukraine with macro-financial and defense support in 2024. We appreciate that, in such a challenging time, we see unity among congressmen. Ukrainian society counts on Congress making a positive decision, as it will strengthen our forces," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
The ways to use frozen Russian assets as an extensive source of funds for Ukraine's reconstruction were separately discussed. It was noted that 2024 should be the year of final decisions and the implementation of specific steps in this direction.
The President of Ukraine informed Penny Pritzker about the Agreement on Security Co-operation between Ukraine and the United Kingdom signed on Friday and emphasized the importance of progress in preparing and concluding such agreements with other partners of Ukraine, including the G7 states.