Biden makes surprise trip to Kiev amid anti-war rally at home

US President Joe Biden, left, shakes hands with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Mariinsky Palace during an unannounced visit in Kyiv, Ukraine, Feb 20, 2023. (PHOTO / AP)

KYIV – US President Joe Biden on Monday arrived in Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, one day after thousands rallied in Washington to protest US war-mongering foreign policy and its role in various conflicts across the globe.

Media reports said Biden will announce a $500-million military aid to Ukraine, a move that is widely believed to further escalate the regional conflict.

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US President Joe Biden, center left, walks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at St. Michael's Golden-Domed Cathedral during an unannounced visit, in Kyiv, Ukraine, Feb 20, 2023. (PHOTO / AP)

Domestically, Biden is currently faced with mounting pressures due to thorny issues, including a hazmat train derailment.