Aviva Fried / Credits: DREW ANGERER / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP 10:28 a.m. on December 13, 2023

Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Washington ended without any real progress on US aid to Ukraine. Republicans in Congress are still blocking $60 billion in aid, as long as they haven't received funds to secure their border.

The future is more than uncertain for Volodomyr Zelensky. The Ukrainian president's visit to Washington ended without any real progress on US aid to Ukraine. Republicans in Congress are blocking $60 billion in aid until they receive funds to secure the border in exchange. Volodomyr Zelensky has pleaded with lawmakers in Congress to provide the aid Ukraine desperately needs. But he left without a firm promise.

"The discussions with both parties and both chambers have been very productive. It is very important that by the end of the year, we can send a strong signal of unity to the aggressor," the Ukrainian head of state tried to be positive at a press conference. A deal by the end of the year seems unlikely, especially since Congress is in recess at the end of this week. There are only a few days left to negotiate, and the talks have stalled. The Republicans are adamant: without an agreement on the border and immigration, there will be no money for Kiev.

>> ALSO READ – U.S. announces $425 million in new military aid for Ukraine

Joe Biden denounces blackmail

"Taking aid to Ukraine hostage to smuggle an extremist republican agenda across the border is not done. We need real solutions," the US president said. However, the occupant of the White House said he was open to a compromise. Another glimmer of hope for Ukrainians is that a good portion of Republican elected officials continue to support Ukraine. But, with the elections in sight, domestic political concerns take precedence. Knowing that 40% of Americans believe that the United States is doing too much for Ukraine.