US confirms Ukrainian president's plans to visit Washington on Wednesday

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will depart from his country for the first time since the war with Russia began 10 months ago to consult with US President Joe Biden and US lawmakers, the White House confirmed on Wednesday.

"President Biden has invited President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine to visit Washington D.C. to underscore the United States' enduring commitment to Ukraine," said White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre in a written statement, confirming multiple reports about a possible surprise visit by the Ukrainian leader.