"Zelenskyy and Putin Deliver Starkly Contrasting Messages Amidst New Year's Tensions"
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned Western countries that reducing financial and military support to Ukraine could have severe consequences, including the risk of Russia bringing conflict closer to the West. As the war with Russia nears its third year, there is growing concern about whether Western allies will maintain their aid levels, especially with the U.S. facing political resistance and European support waning. Zelensky emphasizes that supporting Ukraine is in the West's own interest, as it helps protect global rights and democracy. President Biden's request for $60 billion in aid for Ukraine faces challenges in Congress, and European countries like Germany have indicated they cannot compensate for any reduction in U.S. aid.