World3 min(s) read
Published 15:12 08 May 2022 GMT
Jill Biden has crossed the border into Ukraine to spend US Mother's Day with the country's first lady, Olena Zelenska.
As reported by CNN, the First Lady of the United States has marked her Mother's Day by making an unannounced visit to the small Ukrainian city of Uzhhorod.
It comes as Ukraine is enduring its tenth week under Russian invasion, with Vladimir Putin launching his "special military operation" back on February 24.
Biden met with Ukrainian first lady Olena Zelenska at a converted school that is currently being used to house displaced citizens. Zelenska has not been seen in public since Russia's invasion.
CNN reports that Dr. Biden told First Lady Zelenska: "I wanted to come on Mother's Day.
"We thought it was important to show the Ukrainian people this war has to stop. And this war has been brutal."
"The people of the United States stand with the people of Ukraine," Dr. Biden added.
Photos from the historic meeting show the two first ladies sitting at a small table in a former classroom.
In response, Biden's Ukrainian counterpart responded (via an interpreter): "First of all, I would like to thank you for a very courageous act."
"Because we understand what it takes for the US first lady to come here during a war when the military actions are taking place every day, where the air sirens are happening every day, even today," Zelenska added. "We all feel your support and we all feel the leadership of the US President but we would like to note that the Mother's Day is a very symbolic day for us because we also feel your love and support during such an important day."
The former school currently provides temporary housing to 163 displaced Ukrainians, including 47 children, per the Daily Mail.
The two first ladies could be seen crafting with a group of children who were working on art projects for their mothers.
On Instagram, Dr. Biden further explained her decision to visit Ukraine on Mother's Day, writing:
"This Mother’s Day, I wanted to be with Ukrainian mothers and their children.
"Over the last few months, far too many Ukrainians have had to flee their homes – forcing them to leave behind their loved ones.
"As a mother, I can only imagine the grief and anxiety they must feel every day from Russia’s unprovoked attack.
"I’ve seen firsthand how the people of Slovakia and Romania have opened their homes, their schools, their hospitals, and their hearts. Together, we are united for Ukraine.
"I hope by being here I can convey how much their strength and resilience inspires the world, and remind them that they are not alone."
The Daily Mail adds that the visit lasted four roughly two hours and was not announced due to security reasons.
If you would like to know how you can support the Ukrainian people at this time, click HERE to find a list of organizations and groups dedicated to helping those affected by this crisis.
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