Fact-Check: Zelenskyy Has Thanked the U.S. at Least 94 Times

According to an analysis by UNITED24, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has publicly expressed gratitude to the United States 94 times since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. This count is based on statements made through his official Telegram channel.

The findings come in response to remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance during a meeting with Zelenskyy in the Oval Office on February 28, 2025. During the meeting, Trump suggested that Zelenskyy had not shown enough appreciation, stating, “You have to be thankful. You don’t have the cards,” and later adding, “You gotta be more thankful.” Vance echoed this sentiment, asking, “Have you said thank you once this entire meeting?”

However, both CNN and UNITED24’s analysis show multiple instances where Zelenskyy has publicly thanked the United States for its diplomatic, military, and financial support. While CNN’s fact-check identified at least 33 instances since 2022, UNITED24’s deeper review found that the Ukrainian president has voiced his appreciation nearly three times as often.

Below is a selection of Zelenskyy’s public acknowledgments of U.S. support, recorded at various key moments:

May 14, 2022: During a visit from a U.S. Senate delegation led by Republican Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Zelenskyy thanks the United States for standing with Ukraine. “Thank you for your leadership in helping us in our fight not only for our country, but also for democratic values ​​and freedoms. We greatly appreciate it.”

October 4, 2022: After speaking with U.S. President Joe Biden about battlefield conditions and economic support, Zelenskyy acknowledges American commitment. “Thank you to the US President and all the American people for your continued defense and financial support.”

October 21, 2022: During a meeting in Kyiv with U.S. Representatives Mike Turner, James Himes, and Eric Swalwell, Zelenskyy underscores the significance of American aid. “Thank you for your visit.”

January 6, 2023: In a meeting with U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Angus King, Zelenskyy acknowledges the role of American military support in Ukraine’s fight against Russia. “Thank you to the American people, the US President and Congress for your support of Ukraine! We appreciate the help to our military. It is truly felt. The United States is a leader in this extremely important issue. And this brings our victory closer.”

February 21, 2023: Zelenskyy meets with a U.S. House delegation led by Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul, reiterating the necessity of continued support. “Thank you to the American congressmen for supporting Ukraine and understanding the importance of increasing assistance for our victory over the aggressor.”

May 30, 2023: Following a visit from the Atlantic Council delegation, Zelenskyy expresses appreciation for American leadership in supporting Ukraine. “Thank you to President Biden and the entire American people for your strong support for Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian aggression. We appreciate the bicameral and bipartisan support of the US Congress.”

September 22, 2024: During a speech at the U.S. National Archives, Zelenskyy emphasizes the unity between Ukraine and the United States in defending freedom. “We expressed our gratitude to the U.S. and all Americans who support Ukraine from the heart. We called for unity in the fight for our shared freedom.”

February 19, 2025: Following a conversation with U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, Zelenskyy highlights the bipartisan nature of American support for Ukraine’s war effort. “We deeply appreciate the bipartisan and bicameral support of the U.S. Congress for the Ukrainian people in our fight against Russian aggression. It is crucial that security guarantees remain on the table and work for Ukraine—for a real and lasting peace.”

February 15, 2025: At the Munich Security Conference, Zelenskyy reaffirms the importance of U.S. assistance in securing global peace. “We had good meetings with US senators and members of the House of Representatives. Of course, there will continue to be many different attempts by Putin to deceive everyone and drag out the war. But real peace is possible. And we must achieve it: Ukraine, the United States, Europe. This is our common security. Thank you, America!”

These statements represent only a portion of Zelenskyy’s documented expressions of gratitude. His consistent acknowledgments challenge claims that he has failed to appreciate U.S. assistance.

In corresponding news on March 2, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other European leaders at the 'Securing Our Future' Summit in London.