NATO leaders are convening in the US capital on Tuesday for a high-stakes summit aimed at demonstrating unity and support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia.
The gathering marks the 75th anniversary of the military alliance and comes at a critical moment in the war.
President Joe Biden is set to reassure allies of US leadership and commitment to the alliance, amid growing concerns over his re-election campaign.
“Our allies are looking for US leadership. Who else do you think could step in here and do this? I expanded NATO. I solidified NATO,” Biden said in an interview Monday.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also in attendance, and NATO members are expected to pledge new military and economic aid to Ukraine.
“I would like to hear from our partners a greater resilience and a stronger response to the blow that Russia has once again delivered,” Zelensky said on a stopover in Poland before heading to Washington.
The summit will also address emerging security concerns related to China’s growing influence.
Other key leaders in attendance include British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
As the war in Ukraine enters its sixth month, NATO’s show of support is seen as a crucial moment in the conflict.