Secretary Blinken makes surprise visit to Kiev to "reaffirm" the Biden administration's support for Ukraine

Secretary of State Antony Blinken traveled to Ukraine on Wednesday on a surprise official visit that was not previously announced by the government. The official landed in Kiev after Russia heavily bombed the Ukrainian capital.

According to a statement released later by the State Department, Blinken is meeting with senior Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelensky, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba.

During the visit, he aims to "discuss Ukraine’s ongoing counteroffensive and future recovery and reconstruction efforts" and "demonstrate the United States' unwavering commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and democracy, especially in the face of Russia's aggression." He also wants to "address Ukraine’s energy, security, and humanitarian needs, and make announcements about how the United States can continue supporting Ukraine in these areas."

Blinken meets with Zelensky and other ministers

After landing in the Ukrainian capital, Blinken went along with some soldiers to the Berkovetske cemetery to bring flowers to the graves of armed forces members who have lost their lives in the fight against the Russian invasion:

Blinken posted some images of the visit on social media. He highlighted the "great meeting" that took place with Prime Minister Shmyhal:

The secretary also shared images of his meeting with Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and said the meeting reaffirmed "the United States' steadfast support for Ukraine's defense and future deterrence."

This is the secretary's fourth trip to Ukraine since the invasion began. However, unlike the others, this is the first time he will spend the night in Kiev since before the attacks began.