Fact Check: Zelensky has not thanked the US for aid

Fact Check: "Zelensky has not thanked the US for aid"

What We Know

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has publicly expressed gratitude to the United States numerous times since the onset of Russia's invasion in February 2022. For instance, during a visit to Washington on December 21, 2022, Zelensky thanked "every American" for their support, stating that the aid was not charity but an "investment" in global security and democracy (AP News). He has also thanked U.S. leaders, including President Joe Biden and members of Congress, in various speeches and social media posts, highlighting the importance of U.S. military and economic assistance (CNN, Yahoo).

In a recent meeting with Biden on September 21, 2023, Zelensky reiterated his appreciation, saying, "Thank you so much, Mr. President," and acknowledged the vital assistance provided by the U.S. to combat Russian aggression (CNN). Additionally, a fact-checking report outlines 33 instances where Zelensky has thanked the U.S. and its leaders for their support (CNN).

Analysis

The claim that Zelensky has not thanked the U.S. for its aid is demonstrably false. Multiple sources confirm that Zelensky has consistently expressed gratitude to the U.S. government and its citizens. His remarks during high-profile visits, such as his address to Congress and meetings with Biden, explicitly acknowledge the support received from the U.S. (AP News, CNN).

Moreover, the credibility of the sources reporting on Zelensky's expressions of gratitude is high. Major news outlets like the Associated Press and CNN are known for their journalistic standards and fact-checking processes. The information provided is corroborated by multiple instances, including social media posts and official statements made by Zelensky (Yahoo, Times Now News).

The claim appears to stem from a misinterpretation or selective quoting of Zelensky's statements, particularly in the context of political discussions where he may not have expressed gratitude in the manner expected by some critics (CNN). However, this does not negate the numerous times he has thanked the U.S. in various settings.

Conclusion

Verdict: False
The assertion that Zelensky has not thanked the U.S. for its aid is incorrect. Evidence from multiple reputable sources shows that he has expressed gratitude on numerous occasions, recognizing the significant support provided by the U.S. in Ukraine's fight against Russian aggression. The claim lacks substantiation and overlooks the documented instances of Zelensky's appreciation.

Sources

1. Zelenskyy thanks 'every American,' sees 'turning point'
2. Fact check: 33 times Zelensky thanked Americans and US leaders
3. Zelensky's Thank-You Graph: A Look At '33 Times' He Expressed Gratitude
4. Zelensky to Make a Case for More Aid in U.S. Visit
5. Zelensky thanks Johnson, Schumer for helping get US aid bill passed
6. Will Always Be Grateful: Zelensky Thanks US For $250 Million Aid
7. Video of Zelensky Saying Thank You to America 94 Times Goes Viral
8. 33 times Zelensky thanked Americans and US leaders