First Lady Jill Biden will sit with the Ukrainian ambassador to the United States during her husband’s State of the Union speech tonight.
According to a guest list released by the White House on Tuesday, Ambassador Oksana Markarova will “join the First Lady in the viewing box”, in an apparent gesture of support for Ukraine as it fends off a Russian invasion.
Ms Markarova will be joined by Vice President Kamala Harris’ husband, Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff; President Biden’s sister, Valerie Biden Owens; and several American citizens with notable stories.
“Each of these individuals, with their resilience, innovation, service, and courage, were chosen by the White House because they represent policies or themes to be addressed by the President in his speech,” the White House said.
Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine last week, starting the largest ground war in Europe since World War II. The Biden administration has condemned the attack and levied a wide range of financial and economic sanctions against Russia, but so far has chosen not to send American troops.
On Monday, Ambassador Markarova met with a group of US senators in Washington, DC, pleading for more military supplies and equipment. In particular, she said Ukraine’s forces were running out of anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles, which have been crucial to staving off the invaders.
After the meeting, the ambassador told reporters her country would not give up.
“The devastation that Russia is trying to inflict on Ukraine is large,” Ms Markarova said. “But Ukrainians will resist. We are defending our home. We do not have any other option. We will not get tired, we will not stop, we will not surrender.”
Meanwhile, First Lady Biden has expressed her support for Ukraine.
“Joe and I continue to pray for the brave and proud people of Ukraine,” Dr Biden tweeted on Sunday. “Our hearts are with our troops and our military families, including those who are stationed throughout Europe demonstrating solidarity with our Allies. We are profoundly grateful for your service.”
President Biden will deliver his State of the Union tonight at 9pm, Eastern Standard Time. The speech is expected to heavily focus on the war in Ukraine.
