Zelensky Asks for More Ammo at US Plant Ahead of Biden Meeting

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky requested additional ammunition from the United States ahead of a planned meeting with President Joe Biden.
On Sunday, Zelensky traveled to an ammunition factory in Scranton, Pennsylvania, where he thanked employees for helping supply Ukraine with ammo amid the country’s war with Russia.
Pennsylvania Democratic Representative Matt Cartwright met with Zelensky and said that the Ukrainian president shared a message with the plant workers, saying, “Thank you. And we need more.”
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Zelensky detailed his trip to the factory saying, “Scranton, Pennsylvania. I visited a plant that manufactures 155 mm artillery shells. Now, for our warriors who are defending not only our country, not only Ukraine, the plant will be ramping up production.”
“I began my visit to the United States by expressing my gratitude to all the employees at the plant and by reaching agreements to expand cooperation between Pennsylvania and our Zaporizhzhia.”
In another post, Zelensky said, “During my visit to the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant, where components for artillery and mortar shells are produced, including 155 mm shells for Ukraine, I emphasized the dedication of the workers, which is truly inspiring—they are helping Ukraine stand strong in our fight for freedom.
“I am grateful to the people of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and all the states where Americans are building this incredible arsenal of global freedom. Together, we are strengthening the defense of liberty and democracy.”
Zelensky’s U.S. trip marks the start of a packed week. He’s set to address the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday and Wednesday before heading to Washington, D.C., for meetings with Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday, aiming to bolster support for Ukraine.
Since Sunday morning, the area surrounding the ammunition plant has been locked down, with municipal garbage trucks forming roadblocks and a significant police presence—including regional, city, and state officers and mounted troopers.
As Zelensky’s motorcade arrived at the ammunition plant in the afternoon, a small group gathered nearby, waving Ukrainian flags to show their support for the Ukrainian president’s visit.
Vera Kowal Krewson, a first-generation Ukrainian American, was among those who greeted Zelensky and said, “It’s unfortunate that we need a plant like this, but it’s here, and it’s here to protect the world,” the Associated Press reported.
“And I strongly feel that way.”
Laryssa Salak, 60, the daughter of Ukrainian immigrants, said she was glad Zelensky came to show his appreciation to the workers. However, she expressed frustration that U.S. aid to Ukraine has become a divisive issue, noting that even some of her friends oppose it, arguing the funds should be used to help Americans.
This article includes reporting from the Associated Press.