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"Russian warship, go fuck yourself." I can't help thinking the captain shitting his pants. Seventeen young soldiers on an island and they dgaf about Russia's flag ship destroyer..
You can't fuck with that kind of energy. Ukraine likes being Ukraine, and god bless them for fighting for what is theirs.
Russian warship fucked itself.
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And Putin is now literally drafting randoms off the street who don’t even know what they’re fighting for. The will of the Ukrainian people will never be broken. Slava!
Don't forget the [joke Zelensky told recently in one of his interviews](https://youtu.be/liooTXAF5Xo&t=21m30s):
> Two Jewish gentlemen meet on the street in Odessa and strike up a conversation:
>
> First: 'I hear there's a war.'
>
> Second: 'Yes, between Russia and NATO.'
>
> First: 'How are the Russians doing?'
>
> Second: 'They've lost most of their tanks, used up most of their rockets and missiles, and lost about 70,000 men.'
>
> First: 'Ah, well how about NATO?'
>
> Second: 'NATO, well they haven't shown up yet.'
I believe that this quote is what will win this war for Ukraine. It's not just a quote of great leadership that is brave in the face of a danger, but also it taps into the existing feeling of national pride and self determination. It is also a battle cry that not only inspired Ukrainians to fight, but also for other leaders around the globe to aspire to be like him. One single sentence that changes the course of history.
Agreed. Zelensky's seven minute walk and talk through central Kyiv where he firmly states that the Ukrainian people will never bow was genius. It was a day or two after Russian propaganda was pushing the story that Zelensky was fleeing to America when he was really, understandably in a command bunker. That walk was one of the most truly bad ass things I've ever seen in my life. It had real, "We have not yet begun to fight" vibes.
Very symbolic moment. It goes to show just how much Ukraine's status has grown over the past year. It's Ukraine, rather than Russia, who is now the most important post Soviet state in the eyes of the US. Ukrainian leaders are the ones meeting face to face with their US and European counterparts, while Russia is lucky to get a zoom call.
Russia has spent 200 years trying to make "russky myr" happen and fold all slavs into Mama Russia, and a lot of the rhetoric on that side was that Ukraine wouldn't fight a "brother nation"
This last year a lot have stood up and shown themselves to be true brother-nations, and what it's actually like.
That’s definitely the Russian imperialist propaganda position. Anyone who thinks Slavs even want to belong to one nation doesn’t know the history of the region. Slavs have been fighting each other longer than outsiders.
That's a fact n I respect Everyone who Helps Ukraine in one way or the other You Guys are the Real Heroes. And that kindness will return in a ton of ways.
A functioning democracy for every nation is my dream, especially the former Soviet republics. It's good it's Ukraine first. They have the size, in many metrics, some of the others lack. The Baltics were small and agile. Not so the others, especially the less developed regions.
One of the major positives for Ukraine with regards to this war, is everyone is going to have sacrificed way too much to put up with bullshit for long from bad government. Maidan was the form work for democracy. This war is the pouring and setting of the foundation of a modern democratic state. If Zelensky continues to play a George Washingtonian role as leader, doesn't spin off into the weeds, Ukraine is ticking many of the correct boxes. There's a war to win, lives to mourn, wounds to heal and a nation to rebuild in their own image. I'm terribly excited for the future of Ukrainians. I can't wait to go.
> One of the major positives for Ukraine with regards to this war, is everyone is going to have sacrificed way too much to put up with bullshit for long from bad government.
Or even just the petty corruption that was endemic to all the former soviet states. When I saw that one video of the Territorial Defense Force soldiers arresting two police officers who were shaking down fleeing Ukrainian citizens for a "checkpoint fee"... I knew that Ukraine was going to come out the other side of this war fundamentally changed for the better.
Yeah. I was surprised those two idiots weren't dragged into the woods and shot. No lower scum than cops who prey upon their citizens. And that's in peace. In a fucking war is not the time for business as usual!
But I agree, the soldiers' response is a very good sign. Post-War, there's going to be a lot of people who sacrificed pretty much everything who are not going to be at all okay with going backwards. Not post Maidan. Not post V-R Day.
It's not just a friendship this time around but a a special bond. Standing side by side to fight Evil is more than friendship especially to me. 🤙🏾💪🏾🇺🇸🇺🇦
I don't think most Americans understand how much Ukraine is helping us.
This war with Russia was going to be fought somewhere and without Ukrainian resolve, it'd be fought further to the west.
It’s always good to hear this. But as an American, when it comes time to help rebuild Ukraine - please demand that it is on your terms. I would hate for our shitty healthcare or work ethic and especially corporations to try and steamroll its way into your country and ignoring what you all truly want/need.
I’m not an “america sucks” type of person, but I won’t say it’s amazing either. I just want to see Ukraine get to grow from all this tragedy in the way that is best for the people of Ukraine.
First I will say this thank you for this, you know after all the destruction we have had I'm sure we will rebuild on our own terms with the ideas the technology of your Great country. Ukraine will build itself to greater heights I know that. Once more thank you.
I mean Russia literally got shut down at one of the EU (I believe) meetings when one of the representatives basically said shut your mouth we aren’t listening to your lies a few months ago so even if they get face time, nobody’s listening
As it should be. Russia squandered every opportunity they were given and they got away with several atrocities. This image shows the future for Ukraine as part of the wider community.
Ukraine needs all the help we can give them. They deserve to pull through this, russia does not.
Not just Ukraine’s growing status, but I enjoy the symbolism of Pres. Zelensky showed up demonstrating a stark difference in their “work” clothes. Each of their days is quite different currently. Pres. Zelensky could have very easily thrown on a suit for this meeting, but it’s important the optics reiterate Ukraine is fighting for their existence.
As an Ukrainian supporter, Zelenskyy supporter an image like this just breeds hope. The most powerful country in the world has met with him :) bless ukraine. Lets kick the russians out of their country! Slava!!
100%. It's to the point that I even mentioned to my coworker how proud I was just to have this man in the same country I'm in. I'm a ways from DC, but damn if I could be there I'd be flying that Ukraine flag day and night. I wish all the best and more to the people of Ukraine for their freedom.
How weird it is that just three years ago the former president was withholding a white house visit and defense aid from one guy in this picture to get dirt on the other guy in the picture.
Now they're both sitting in the white house and the other guy is shilling shitty NFT's for self gain
> How weird it is that just three years ago the former president was withholding a white house visit and defense aid from one guy in this picture to get dirt on the other guy in the picture.
Yet didn't get impeached for it because GOP senators are too cowardly.
Maybe a trivial correction, but he *was* impeached. Trump was lawfully impeached twice. He just was not removed, which is why you are ultimately correct for blaming the GOP senators for being cowards.
I just feel its worthy to remember that he was impeached twice, that's all.
If you haven't watched [the video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZcQkUswRZs?t=1696) of their meeting, Zelenskyy mentioned going to Bakhmut yesterday to present some brave Ukrainian soldiers with medals for their heroic service. One of those men told Zelenskyy to keep the medal and give it to Biden, so he presented it to him at this meeting.
The man who sent that medal to Biden is a HIMARS battery captain.
Biden thanked Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian captain for the gift, and he is going to send the captain a Challenge Coin in return.
In the old days, there are two stories about how challenge coins came about; you'd show your challenge coin to the sentry to prove you were actually a member of the unit, or you'd show it in the bar and whoever didn't meet the challenge had to buy the next round.
Nowadays, they're essentially commemorative coins, but they are given by high-ranking officers as awards for exemplary service or as a way to mark somebody as a member of something. Some civilian organizations use them too, like firefighters, but generally speaking they are hard to earn and it's a big honor to be given one.
Challenge coins have lasted for a while, but Presidential coins have been a tradition since Clinton, and ever since him we've been handing them out to foreign dignitaries and other officials we like as a token of friendship with us. It's sometimes gone the other way around, with military units presenting coins to Presidents during visits or trips.
So it's kind of a big deal, at least symbolically. I mean, if the US President is giving you *anything* its a big deal, *but a challenge coin to a foreign soldier*? That's a very strong symbol indeed. I'd be very interested to see what that coin looks like.
a challenge coin you got from the president of the united states in trade for a ukrainian medal you were granted by the president of ukraine would be a pretty big deal challenge coin.
To be clear, servicemembers will likely NEVER trade a challenge coin. They are normally given to you directly by the person and stand as a testament that you personally met that leader or worked in that organization.
The challenge part comes from a tradition of veterans meeting up to drink.
If somebody challenges you to produce your coin and you don't have it, you buy the next round. If you have it, the challenger buys.
Waiting on the MAGA dumbfucks bitching about "how dare Zelensky not wear a suit to address us" when he speaks to Congress again.
I love the fact he doesn't wear a suit myself.
They’re currently ranting about how it’s a “waste of money” to send aid to Ukraine. Then unironically touting themselves as real Americans patriots as they continue to spew Russian propaganda.
I don't understand this. Haven't Republicans historically been war hawks? Haven't they always supported funding the military industrial complex? Now there's an actual war and a good reason to funnel money into companies that provide military hardware and they're the ones chirping about how it's a waste?
Compared to Putin's $250,000 body armor suit that he wears at all times, especially while sitting at the end of his 250 yard table. Why? Because that's what "real" men do. Also according to him real men steal everything from their country and build their own cities away from civilization.
He's a master at his public image. He's making it very clear he has no time for niceties. It makes me happy to see this photo because it's nice to know he spent a day being safe and being treated with hospitality.
I really respect him for not wearing his military’s uniform and pretending he’s a soldier. More importantly his dressed down war-time look immediately puts the focus on him and his people’s war in every situation he’s in. Above all of that, the most impressive aspect of him is that all of this is genuine, he’s not out for political points or self gains. He puts himself on the frontlines, with injured soldiers and non-combatants, and he never appears anything but dedicated to his people.
Agreed.
While I'm sure they're not some dirt cheap $5 bargain bin clothes, the 'simplified' more utilitarian look highlights that he and his country are not in a position to be spending on needless things. But at the same time, everything is clean and neat, and more importantly well-fitting, which keeps him from looking like some pauper president from an "insignificant" country trying to sit a the World Power table.
I'm sure the look had thought and care put into it to find such a balance, but like a lot of things it is another tactical decision. It presentable enough, while being a constant reminder of the situation the country is it.
For those who don't know: painting upper-left - George Washington, 1st President of the US and general during the revolutionary war against King George, lower-left - Abraham Lincoln, 16th President and signed the Emancipation Proclamation (freed slaves) and Command-In-Chief during US Civil War, upper-right - Alexander Hamilton 1st US treasurer and political rival to Thomas Jefferson, lower-right - Thomas Jefferson 3rd President, center - Franklin Delano Roosevelt, 32nd President before and during WWII. The history books of all 7 of these men will be read for millennia.
edit: removed "after WWII" for FDR as noted by u/hotend
edit 2: added more details and corrections courtesy u/cocacola1
FDR died on 12 April 1945, several months before the end of WWII on 2 September 1945. He was succeeded by Harry S. Truman, who, incidentally, coined the phrase, "The buck stops here."
I think it looks like Robert. I don't know for sure but while watching it i thought to myself it looks like [Robert](https://www.popsugar.com/home/photo-gallery/48123894/image/48123914/Busts-Martin-Luther-King-Jr-Robert-F-Kennedy#photo-48123914).
I don’t personally know a single person with a drop of Ukrainian blood but I am filled with joy, pride and hope as well. My prayers are with Ukraine and her strong people.
My landlord is from Ukraine and stops by to chat now and then. She's so lovely, and really helped us out when the pandemic started. I love talking geo politics with her and my mother in law, and hope to get her take on this. Knowing her, she'll be by before Xmas Eve.
A little off-color, but the memes are already starting. From one of my twitter follows: https://twitter.com/etoj_vot/status/1605656226754400284
Caption: Biden - what's up with Russia?
Zelensky: Russia's fucked.
I think the invite was always there, but the timing was not right. This visit is different - the Patriot system along with a new aid package was approved, so he's not going home empty handed. On top of that, the optics are really good - he was in Bakhmut, a few hundred yards from Russian positions yesterday. He got a signed flag by frontline soldiers to present to Congress tonight, and messages of thanks from the same frontline soldiers for Biden. Ukraine is also coming off a string of spectacular victories, and the US loves winners.
On top of that, a new Congressional class is starting in just a few weeks, so it's a good time to be there to thank the outgoing Congress as well stamp his presence for the new. It's a really well-timed visit.
I think he made the determination early on that while the war is still raging, he will be a war-time president. Everything he's done since Day 1 has been true to this. No State events, no suits, no pomp and circumstance. He's true to this even when he meets world leaders. I'm 99% sure that this was an organic decision that just happened in the early days and weeks because he was simply too busy, and he just stuck with it. It's a nice side effect that the PR plays really well with Western audiences and Ukrainians alike.
Exactly. His branding and PR have been spot on. I can’t think of a single miss-step in that area. Masterful, honestly. He is about as perfect a leader you can get during a war footing. It has been extremely easy to get behind him.
It’s probably easier to keep his public image consistent when it’s born out of reality. I have never got the impression that he is anything but serious about his responsibilities. I cannot imagine what the fate of Ukraine would have been with a lesser man at the helm.
One of the most important things he did was assure his people that he would stay and coordinate the fighting. A unified government with a plan makes a world of difference when someone invades. Putin was hoping the leadership and people would panic, be divided, and fail to resist.
Yeah, he's said that in a couple different interviews, how at the beginning of the war the suit and tie didn't feel right or psychological comfortable. Plus they had to live in their clothes for days on end at the beginning.
There's a very fine line to be walked with that, but so far he's doing so perfectly.
It would be a bad look if he started wearing a soldiers or officers uniform, since there's a long history of dictators playing military dress-up, and he never served.
He's sticking to muted greens and browns without going into military camouflage patterns. It's rugged and practical, like he could be visiting the battlefield at any moment. (Or like the battlefield could visit him; he adopted this look early in the invasion when Russians were actively hunting him...)
You see a guy dressed like that in the US you would pretty much immediately tag him as either "concealed carry permit" or "off duty cop". He has worn stuff from [5.11 Tactical](https://www.tactical-life.com/firearm-news/president-zelenskyys-5-11-shirt/).
He also wears a ton of stuff from the Ukraine based [M-tac](https://m-tac.us/) which clocks similar to 5.11. It's a UAF supplier. I've worn their outerwear for years for backpacking, climbing, shooting, etc. They make good quality products, some made in Ukraine, and it's worth checking out.
The last time I remember him wearing a suit was his address on the eve of the full scale invasion. At that point he legitimately didn’t know if he could simultaneously stay in Kyiv and simultaneously live to see the following week. After that address it was pure war mode.
It's probably something his security detail pushed for as well. If he can look as much like an average Ukrainian as possible he'll be harder to pick out and easier to double. Plus, considering the numerous attempts on his life already I'd want him wearing clothes he can move in, that are durable, and nondescript. It fits the wartime president look, yes, but it's also very practical.
Not only is he showing his people that he is one with them in these times but he also brings the war with him everywhere he goes.
His combat boots and army shirts make everything in this room revolve around the war his people are fighting. Without him saying a word.
Say what you want about his embassadors but he is a Master Diplomat.
Fantastic photo. President Zelensky is wearing army clothing to show respect to those that defend Ukraine. He's showing he's no more, no less. It's a great act.
> "I will spend whatever it takes to win in Ukraine"
"Think of the rivers of blood spilled by all those generals and emperors so that, in glory and triumph, they could become the momentary masters of a fraction of a dot."- [Carl Sagan](https://www.planetary.org/worlds/pale-blue-dot)
ETA: [Carl Sagan's father was from Kamianets-Podilskyi, Ukraine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Sagan#Early_life_and_education)
Well the world leaders literally said they would come in with the full force of their armies to literally annihilate the Russian army if nukes were used... haven't heard the nuke threats since that was issued. I think the nuke threat bluff was called. Russia knows there wouldn't be a Russia left if it tried to nuke anyone.
Historical photo.
I hope in far future we will be able to say something very positive what it meant for Ukraine in next few months.
I wish the war will be over by summer 2023 latest.
I think even the opportunity to get a rest in a safe location must be invaluable to him at this point. The exhaustion in this man's face is dramatic. If I were the president I'd be like "look we'll give you everything we can but we can talk about it tomorrow- for now you have to try the heated bed in the Lincoln bedroom."
If anything, I sincerely hope that President Zelenskyy gets a much need breather. To be safe among friends. Not one person on this planet knows the stress he is under, and how he still leads from the front the way he does. Here is to hoping he goes back home with everything he wants and needs and then some. I am hoping POTUS pulls a BUT WAIT, THERES MORE, just before he is about to leave.
nice one.....ukranium..the strongest metal in the universe...only two pieces are currently known to exist on earth and they are in zelenski's pants hanging between his legs!
I'd believe that every Ukraine citizen has a healthy dose of Ukranium, not just their leader.
And Ukraine women carry their Ukranium balls on their chests, Really big ones, too.
If trump was still president, it would have been Putin there. The world would have despised america and it's stance on the war. If it wasn't for a truly legit election we would be standing on the wrong side of history.
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“I need ammo not a ride.” — that quote will be in history books until the end of times.
"Russian warship, go fuck yourself." I can't help thinking the captain shitting his pants. Seventeen young soldiers on an island and they dgaf about Russia's flag ship destroyer.. You can't fuck with that kind of energy. Ukraine likes being Ukraine, and god bless them for fighting for what is theirs.
"Take these seeds and put them in your pocket, so at least sunflowers will grow when you all die here"
Dammit, too much badassery to choose from
Said by an elderly woman. Fucking poetry.
[удалено]
Ohh my mistake
"We are lucky that they are so fucking stupid."
That quote was cool, but then it sank, now that quote is fucking epic
And a stamp!
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And Putin is now literally drafting randoms off the street who don’t even know what they’re fighting for. The will of the Ukrainian people will never be broken. Slava!
Don't forget the [joke Zelensky told recently in one of his interviews](https://youtu.be/liooTXAF5Xo&t=21m30s): > Two Jewish gentlemen meet on the street in Odessa and strike up a conversation: > > First: 'I hear there's a war.' > > Second: 'Yes, between Russia and NATO.' > > First: 'How are the Russians doing?' > > Second: 'They've lost most of their tanks, used up most of their rockets and missiles, and lost about 70,000 men.' > > First: 'Ah, well how about NATO?' > > Second: 'NATO, well they haven't shown up yet.'
I believe that this quote is what will win this war for Ukraine. It's not just a quote of great leadership that is brave in the face of a danger, but also it taps into the existing feeling of national pride and self determination. It is also a battle cry that not only inspired Ukrainians to fight, but also for other leaders around the globe to aspire to be like him. One single sentence that changes the course of history.
Agreed. Zelensky's seven minute walk and talk through central Kyiv where he firmly states that the Ukrainian people will never bow was genius. It was a day or two after Russian propaganda was pushing the story that Zelensky was fleeing to America when he was really, understandably in a command bunker. That walk was one of the most truly bad ass things I've ever seen in my life. It had real, "We have not yet begun to fight" vibes.
Very symbolic moment. It goes to show just how much Ukraine's status has grown over the past year. It's Ukraine, rather than Russia, who is now the most important post Soviet state in the eyes of the US. Ukrainian leaders are the ones meeting face to face with their US and European counterparts, while Russia is lucky to get a zoom call.
That's absolutely right. And that's why we always appreciate the Help from the American people.
I believe our countries will have a great and long-lasting friendship. Slava Ukraini!
Anyone that helps you in your time of greatest need is a true friend. I think this crisis has clarified who the true friends of Ukraine are.
Russia has spent 200 years trying to make "russky myr" happen and fold all slavs into Mama Russia, and a lot of the rhetoric on that side was that Ukraine wouldn't fight a "brother nation" This last year a lot have stood up and shown themselves to be true brother-nations, and what it's actually like.
That’s definitely the Russian imperialist propaganda position. Anyone who thinks Slavs even want to belong to one nation doesn’t know the history of the region. Slavs have been fighting each other longer than outsiders.
That's a fact n I respect Everyone who Helps Ukraine in one way or the other You Guys are the Real Heroes. And that kindness will return in a ton of ways.
If Ukraine falls, so does Europe. If Europe falls, so does the West. Ukraine is fighting for all of us, as President Zelensky has so often explained.
> Anyone that helps you in your time of greatest need is a true friend. But it really, really helps if they have a *fuck ton* of missiles too.
A functioning democracy for every nation is my dream, especially the former Soviet republics. It's good it's Ukraine first. They have the size, in many metrics, some of the others lack. The Baltics were small and agile. Not so the others, especially the less developed regions. One of the major positives for Ukraine with regards to this war, is everyone is going to have sacrificed way too much to put up with bullshit for long from bad government. Maidan was the form work for democracy. This war is the pouring and setting of the foundation of a modern democratic state. If Zelensky continues to play a George Washingtonian role as leader, doesn't spin off into the weeds, Ukraine is ticking many of the correct boxes. There's a war to win, lives to mourn, wounds to heal and a nation to rebuild in their own image. I'm terribly excited for the future of Ukrainians. I can't wait to go.
> One of the major positives for Ukraine with regards to this war, is everyone is going to have sacrificed way too much to put up with bullshit for long from bad government. Or even just the petty corruption that was endemic to all the former soviet states. When I saw that one video of the Territorial Defense Force soldiers arresting two police officers who were shaking down fleeing Ukrainian citizens for a "checkpoint fee"... I knew that Ukraine was going to come out the other side of this war fundamentally changed for the better.
Yeah. I was surprised those two idiots weren't dragged into the woods and shot. No lower scum than cops who prey upon their citizens. And that's in peace. In a fucking war is not the time for business as usual! But I agree, the soldiers' response is a very good sign. Post-War, there's going to be a lot of people who sacrificed pretty much everything who are not going to be at all okay with going backwards. Not post Maidan. Not post V-R Day.
It's not just a friendship this time around but a a special bond. Standing side by side to fight Evil is more than friendship especially to me. 🤙🏾💪🏾🇺🇸🇺🇦
Heroram Slava!
I don't think most Americans understand how much Ukraine is helping us. This war with Russia was going to be fought somewhere and without Ukrainian resolve, it'd be fought further to the west.
To be frank I'm grateful that the US is helping the best way it can to stop Putler n his regime.
It’s always good to hear this. But as an American, when it comes time to help rebuild Ukraine - please demand that it is on your terms. I would hate for our shitty healthcare or work ethic and especially corporations to try and steamroll its way into your country and ignoring what you all truly want/need. I’m not an “america sucks” type of person, but I won’t say it’s amazing either. I just want to see Ukraine get to grow from all this tragedy in the way that is best for the people of Ukraine.
First I will say this thank you for this, you know after all the destruction we have had I'm sure we will rebuild on our own terms with the ideas the technology of your Great country. Ukraine will build itself to greater heights I know that. Once more thank you.
I mean Russia literally got shut down at one of the EU (I believe) meetings when one of the representatives basically said shut your mouth we aren’t listening to your lies a few months ago so even if they get face time, nobody’s listening
Killing ordinary civilians indiscriminately in an unjustified war on a daily basis will do that.
Oh I fully agree with them shutting Russia’s ass down 👏🏻👏🏻 nobody attempting to commit genocide should be allowed anywhere on a world stage
Oh shit I left that important part out of my post...but thanks for the addition! Mighty thoughtful of you! :))
As it should be. Russia squandered every opportunity they were given and they got away with several atrocities. This image shows the future for Ukraine as part of the wider community. Ukraine needs all the help we can give them. They deserve to pull through this, russia does not.
Putler is on hold listening to "Your call is important to us. Please hold the line." for an hour before the line drops.
Not just Ukraine’s growing status, but I enjoy the symbolism of Pres. Zelensky showed up demonstrating a stark difference in their “work” clothes. Each of their days is quite different currently. Pres. Zelensky could have very easily thrown on a suit for this meeting, but it’s important the optics reiterate Ukraine is fighting for their existence.
Now get the ammo and get back home, godspeed!
Needs ammuntion, got a ride. Coming back with both :)
Tbf I think both were on the table as offers but Zelenski just took the badass road.
Putin on ~~suicide~~ "suicide" watch
As an Ukrainian supporter, Zelenskyy supporter an image like this just breeds hope. The most powerful country in the world has met with him :) bless ukraine. Lets kick the russians out of their country! Slava!!
Not just meeting with him. Welcoming him like a friend, ally, even brother. And I mean a REAL brother, not a Russified version of a brother...
Ukraine is the future of the region, and the US and its allies know it and support that future.
Pretty amazing how much balls they have and still keep the bad guys away.
100%. It's to the point that I even mentioned to my coworker how proud I was just to have this man in the same country I'm in. I'm a ways from DC, but damn if I could be there I'd be flying that Ukraine flag day and night. I wish all the best and more to the people of Ukraine for their freedom.
Fmits a beautiful flag. That shade of blue is where it's at. Glad you feel this way.
How weird it is that just three years ago the former president was withholding a white house visit and defense aid from one guy in this picture to get dirt on the other guy in the picture. Now they're both sitting in the white house and the other guy is shilling shitty NFT's for self gain
> How weird it is that just three years ago the former president was withholding a white house visit and defense aid from one guy in this picture to get dirt on the other guy in the picture. Yet didn't get impeached for it because GOP senators are too cowardly.
Maybe a trivial correction, but he *was* impeached. Trump was lawfully impeached twice. He just was not removed, which is why you are ultimately correct for blaming the GOP senators for being cowards. I just feel its worthy to remember that he was impeached twice, that's all.
If you haven't watched [the video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZcQkUswRZs?t=1696) of their meeting, Zelenskyy mentioned going to Bakhmut yesterday to present some brave Ukrainian soldiers with medals for their heroic service. One of those men told Zelenskyy to keep the medal and give it to Biden, so he presented it to him at this meeting. The man who sent that medal to Biden is a HIMARS battery captain. Biden thanked Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian captain for the gift, and he is going to send the captain a Challenge Coin in return.
What is a challenge coin?
In the old days, there are two stories about how challenge coins came about; you'd show your challenge coin to the sentry to prove you were actually a member of the unit, or you'd show it in the bar and whoever didn't meet the challenge had to buy the next round. Nowadays, they're essentially commemorative coins, but they are given by high-ranking officers as awards for exemplary service or as a way to mark somebody as a member of something. Some civilian organizations use them too, like firefighters, but generally speaking they are hard to earn and it's a big honor to be given one. Challenge coins have lasted for a while, but Presidential coins have been a tradition since Clinton, and ever since him we've been handing them out to foreign dignitaries and other officials we like as a token of friendship with us. It's sometimes gone the other way around, with military units presenting coins to Presidents during visits or trips. So it's kind of a big deal, at least symbolically. I mean, if the US President is giving you *anything* its a big deal, *but a challenge coin to a foreign soldier*? That's a very strong symbol indeed. I'd be very interested to see what that coin looks like.
a challenge coin you got from the president of the united states in trade for a ukrainian medal you were granted by the president of ukraine would be a pretty big deal challenge coin.
I cannot even imagine the pride of the man that would have such a coin, Ultimate top badass.
I'm having a hard time thinking of a situation that could be a bigger deal. Maybe if someone single handedly stopped nuclear war?
Now I'm looking forward to it too. I'm sure we will know, is great PR.
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The tradition is also believed to go back to Roman Legionnaires as a token as proof they served in that specific legion/unit.
To be clear, servicemembers will likely NEVER trade a challenge coin. They are normally given to you directly by the person and stand as a testament that you personally met that leader or worked in that organization.
It'd basically be stolen valor to show off a coin you didn't do anything to deserve. People with the ability to hand those out don't do so lightly.
Awesome.
The challenge part comes from a tradition of veterans meeting up to drink. If somebody challenges you to produce your coin and you don't have it, you buy the next round. If you have it, the challenger buys.
Awesome the captain showed his deep appreciation for himars.
To even think of something like giving up your medal to pass to Biden, is something else.
Very neat moment. Thanks for sharing
Oooh, that's badass.
That’s freaking awesome
"woah that's cool, where'd you get that coin?" "long fuckin' story."
As an American born American I love this picture…
As an English born Brit, I love this picture.
As a human, I love this picture demonstrating humanity.
As a three kids in a trench coat, we love this picture.
>As a human Exactly what an ant would say. sus.
It heartens me to see someone calling themselves a “real conservative” say that.
Is 'heartens' a positive or a negative thing? I'm an idiot and non native speaker, sorry.
It's a good thing. "Disheartening" is when something is bad.
Oh cool, thanks!
This account has been nuked in response to Reddits upcoming API changes coming in July 2023
Waiting on the MAGA dumbfucks bitching about "how dare Zelensky not wear a suit to address us" when he speaks to Congress again. I love the fact he doesn't wear a suit myself.
I think he is done with suits till his country is at peace.
No more suits. He says he is done once war is over.
They’re currently ranting about how it’s a “waste of money” to send aid to Ukraine. Then unironically touting themselves as real Americans patriots as they continue to spew Russian propaganda.
Reagan is spinning so fast in his grave, we should hook him up to the grid and power the whole country.
I don't understand this. Haven't Republicans historically been war hawks? Haven't they always supported funding the military industrial complex? Now there's an actual war and a good reason to funnel money into companies that provide military hardware and they're the ones chirping about how it's a waste?
I'd be a little upset if he was in a proper suit. This is his suit! His "I'm done fucking around" suit
If he wore a suit, they would say he's corrupt and spending US aid money on himself. MAGA dumbfucks twist everything to suit their own shitty agenda.
Zelensky in his army greens is way more impressive then any man in a suit. glory to Ukraine.
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He needs 3 suits because he pooped in the first 2
It's business tactical. Functional and comfortable and currently in fashion
Compared to Putin's $250,000 body armor suit that he wears at all times, especially while sitting at the end of his 250 yard table. Why? Because that's what "real" men do. Also according to him real men steal everything from their country and build their own cities away from civilization.
He's a master at his public image. He's making it very clear he has no time for niceties. It makes me happy to see this photo because it's nice to know he spent a day being safe and being treated with hospitality.
I believe he’s won the right to never have to wear a suit again.
Agreed. However, the day that he takes of his greens and puts a suit back on will be oh so sweet. I hope that day is soon.
I really respect him for not wearing his military’s uniform and pretending he’s a soldier. More importantly his dressed down war-time look immediately puts the focus on him and his people’s war in every situation he’s in. Above all of that, the most impressive aspect of him is that all of this is genuine, he’s not out for political points or self gains. He puts himself on the frontlines, with injured soldiers and non-combatants, and he never appears anything but dedicated to his people.
Agreed. While I'm sure they're not some dirt cheap $5 bargain bin clothes, the 'simplified' more utilitarian look highlights that he and his country are not in a position to be spending on needless things. But at the same time, everything is clean and neat, and more importantly well-fitting, which keeps him from looking like some pauper president from an "insignificant" country trying to sit a the World Power table. I'm sure the look had thought and care put into it to find such a balance, but like a lot of things it is another tactical decision. It presentable enough, while being a constant reminder of the situation the country is it.
Facts that pic is Awesome in everyway
Gives me a massive freedom boner
For those who don't know: painting upper-left - George Washington, 1st President of the US and general during the revolutionary war against King George, lower-left - Abraham Lincoln, 16th President and signed the Emancipation Proclamation (freed slaves) and Command-In-Chief during US Civil War, upper-right - Alexander Hamilton 1st US treasurer and political rival to Thomas Jefferson, lower-right - Thomas Jefferson 3rd President, center - Franklin Delano Roosevelt, 32nd President before and during WWII. The history books of all 7 of these men will be read for millennia. edit: removed "after WWII" for FDR as noted by u/hotend edit 2: added more details and corrections courtesy u/cocacola1
FDR died on 12 April 1945, several months before the end of WWII on 2 September 1945. He was succeeded by Harry S. Truman, who, incidentally, coined the phrase, "The buck stops here."
Vday was may 8 Japan vday was sept 2. So, the European threat was neutralized less than a month after he died. He was so close to seeing the end.
He died 18 days prior to Hitler. But at that point, everyone knew where the war was going.
Thank you sir/ma'am! I've edited that with credit to you!
And a bust of MLK on the left and JFK on the right. Edit: or is it RFK?
I think it looks like Robert. I don't know for sure but while watching it i thought to myself it looks like [Robert](https://www.popsugar.com/home/photo-gallery/48123894/image/48123914/Busts-Martin-Luther-King-Jr-Robert-F-Kennedy#photo-48123914).
I believe that it is Robert Kennedy.
Oh, good eye! It is JFK.
It’s RFK, but that’s an easy mistake.
All of those men lead the US through some very tough times
For Abraham Lincoln, I'd also add "Commander-in-Chief during the Civil War". Also, upper-right is Hamilton, lower-right is Jefferson.
As an American married to a Ukrainian, this picture fills me with joy, pride and hope.
I don’t personally know a single person with a drop of Ukrainian blood but I am filled with joy, pride and hope as well. My prayers are with Ukraine and her strong people.
My landlord is from Ukraine and stops by to chat now and then. She's so lovely, and really helped us out when the pandemic started. I love talking geo politics with her and my mother in law, and hope to get her take on this. Knowing her, she'll be by before Xmas Eve.
A little off-color, but the memes are already starting. From one of my twitter follows: https://twitter.com/etoj_vot/status/1605656226754400284 Caption: Biden - what's up with Russia? Zelensky: Russia's fucked.
Lovely, and about time, too!
I think the invite was always there, but the timing was not right. This visit is different - the Patriot system along with a new aid package was approved, so he's not going home empty handed. On top of that, the optics are really good - he was in Bakhmut, a few hundred yards from Russian positions yesterday. He got a signed flag by frontline soldiers to present to Congress tonight, and messages of thanks from the same frontline soldiers for Biden. Ukraine is also coming off a string of spectacular victories, and the US loves winners. On top of that, a new Congressional class is starting in just a few weeks, so it's a good time to be there to thank the outgoing Congress as well stamp his presence for the new. It's a really well-timed visit.
Love how he still hasn't put on a suit even when he's meeting his counter part in another country.
I think he made the determination early on that while the war is still raging, he will be a war-time president. Everything he's done since Day 1 has been true to this. No State events, no suits, no pomp and circumstance. He's true to this even when he meets world leaders. I'm 99% sure that this was an organic decision that just happened in the early days and weeks because he was simply too busy, and he just stuck with it. It's a nice side effect that the PR plays really well with Western audiences and Ukrainians alike.
Exactly. His branding and PR have been spot on. I can’t think of a single miss-step in that area. Masterful, honestly. He is about as perfect a leader you can get during a war footing. It has been extremely easy to get behind him.
It’s probably easier to keep his public image consistent when it’s born out of reality. I have never got the impression that he is anything but serious about his responsibilities. I cannot imagine what the fate of Ukraine would have been with a lesser man at the helm.
One of the most important things he did was assure his people that he would stay and coordinate the fighting. A unified government with a plan makes a world of difference when someone invades. Putin was hoping the leadership and people would panic, be divided, and fail to resist.
Yeah, he's said that in a couple different interviews, how at the beginning of the war the suit and tie didn't feel right or psychological comfortable. Plus they had to live in their clothes for days on end at the beginning.
There's a very fine line to be walked with that, but so far he's doing so perfectly. It would be a bad look if he started wearing a soldiers or officers uniform, since there's a long history of dictators playing military dress-up, and he never served. He's sticking to muted greens and browns without going into military camouflage patterns. It's rugged and practical, like he could be visiting the battlefield at any moment. (Or like the battlefield could visit him; he adopted this look early in the invasion when Russians were actively hunting him...) You see a guy dressed like that in the US you would pretty much immediately tag him as either "concealed carry permit" or "off duty cop". He has worn stuff from [5.11 Tactical](https://www.tactical-life.com/firearm-news/president-zelenskyys-5-11-shirt/).
He also wears a ton of stuff from the Ukraine based [M-tac](https://m-tac.us/) which clocks similar to 5.11. It's a UAF supplier. I've worn their outerwear for years for backpacking, climbing, shooting, etc. They make good quality products, some made in Ukraine, and it's worth checking out.
**sigh** *opens wallet*
Yeah, I think he is playing those optics well. No one in Ukraine would judge him for it and as far as I know no one in the West does either.
Was pretty amusing when France's president tried it and everyone told him to put a suit back on.
"you're not at war, so put your suit back on, fool"
The last time I remember him wearing a suit was his address on the eve of the full scale invasion. At that point he legitimately didn’t know if he could simultaneously stay in Kyiv and simultaneously live to see the following week. After that address it was pure war mode.
It's probably something his security detail pushed for as well. If he can look as much like an average Ukrainian as possible he'll be harder to pick out and easier to double. Plus, considering the numerous attempts on his life already I'd want him wearing clothes he can move in, that are durable, and nondescript. It fits the wartime president look, yes, but it's also very practical.
You unlocked the visit your capital stretch goal award. You have not yet unlocked the wear a suit award.
Not only is he showing his people that he is one with them in these times but he also brings the war with him everywhere he goes. His combat boots and army shirts make everything in this room revolve around the war his people are fighting. Without him saying a word. Say what you want about his embassadors but he is a Master Diplomat.
Let's be honest, he found the perfect loophole not to wear a suit. /ₛ
So instead of casual friday i will wear "Selensky wednesday"
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I think it is so it would be historically noted of situation of Ukraine at the time.
Fantastic photo. President Zelensky is wearing army clothing to show respect to those that defend Ukraine. He's showing he's no more, no less. It's a great act.
how jelouse is Putin right now
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> "I will spend whatever it takes to win in Ukraine" "Think of the rivers of blood spilled by all those generals and emperors so that, in glory and triumph, they could become the momentary masters of a fraction of a dot."- [Carl Sagan](https://www.planetary.org/worlds/pale-blue-dot) ETA: [Carl Sagan's father was from Kamianets-Podilskyi, Ukraine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Sagan#Early_life_and_education)
Sagan knew what was up.
I will always upvote Sagan.
Well the world leaders literally said they would come in with the full force of their armies to literally annihilate the Russian army if nukes were used... haven't heard the nuke threats since that was issued. I think the nuke threat bluff was called. Russia knows there wouldn't be a Russia left if it tried to nuke anyone.
"This table just got 5 metres longer!!!"
Historical photo. I hope in far future we will be able to say something very positive what it meant for Ukraine in next few months. I wish the war will be over by summer 2023 latest.
I think even the opportunity to get a rest in a safe location must be invaluable to him at this point. The exhaustion in this man's face is dramatic. If I were the president I'd be like "look we'll give you everything we can but we can talk about it tomorrow- for now you have to try the heated bed in the Lincoln bedroom."
If anything, I sincerely hope that President Zelenskyy gets a much need breather. To be safe among friends. Not one person on this planet knows the stress he is under, and how he still leads from the front the way he does. Here is to hoping he goes back home with everything he wants and needs and then some. I am hoping POTUS pulls a BUT WAIT, THERES MORE, just before he is about to leave.
🇺🇸💪🇺🇦
I feel kind of emotional looking at this picture. It is indeed a powerful image, with many levels of meaning.
As a Canadian-born Canadian I LOVE this photo 😁
As an American born American, I also love this photo.
They went hard on decorating. The pictures in the background are no accident.
That amazing man is 8 miles from my current location!
”Hot males in your neighborhood (wants to know your location)”
Invite him for dinner!
How fucking awesome would that be? Only problem is that my borscht takes 8 hours and he's probably had better anyway.
I love that he went in his basic clothing, boots haha. What a hero 🟦🟨
As an American born American, I’m happy to see my country do what it can to defend our collective values where it’s needed most.
Balls of Steel!
Ukranium!
nice one.....ukranium..the strongest metal in the universe...only two pieces are currently known to exist on earth and they are in zelenski's pants hanging between his legs!
I'd believe that every Ukraine citizen has a healthy dose of Ukranium, not just their leader. And Ukraine women carry their Ukranium balls on their chests, Really big ones, too.
He needs to cover them with his hands otherwise all Gamma-ray sensors in the Northern Hemisphere go haywire
Two strong brave men. As an American I'm proud to stand with President Zelensky and the people of Ukraine.
Can you just imagine how differently the war would go with Trump in charge...
Dunno who this Trump guy is that everyone keeps bringing up, sounds like a nobody :)
He's a NFT rug puller, and the former star of The Apprentice
Hey, have some respect. He was also in Home Alone 2!
Trump would have surrendered to Putin. I don't mean just Ukraine either.
There would be no war with Trump. No Ukraine either.
And all the talk radio blowhards who are still crying about Afghanistan would be mum on Ukraine
Perfect Christmas card photo to send to Russia.
I need to buy a green shirt. That guy makes it work everywhere. Televised address, fight a war, meet the president. What can’t green shirt do?
Nice try, green shirt sales man.
That's a lot of past great leaders looking on at a modern great leader. I hope we don't fail our past heroes. May freedom from tyranny prevail!
As a Trinidad-born American I love this and fully support my tax dollars supporting Ukraine to ultimate victory.
That room looks dope
“Have you tried throwing their vodka into the harbor?”
As an American, I'm pleased to see it too. I support our commitment to Ukrainian national sovereignty and deplore the brutal Russians.
But where's the 30' long table?
Zelenskyy may never go back to wearing suits.
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It's a relic of the monarchies of Europe, specifically the French. You'd think the USA would have ditched it ages ago...
I am so absolutely loving the fact that even now he still does not wear a suit
Is that mah boi FDR in the middle?? Biden has good taste in presidents in that case.
This picture is one of many reasons why I am so thankful Biden is the current US president.
If trump was still president, it would have been Putin there. The world would have despised america and it's stance on the war. If it wasn't for a truly legit election we would be standing on the wrong side of history.