Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that Ukraine, which is really fighting for freedom and protecting democracy together, has the right to demand help from its partners.

"If we want to fight for freedom together, then we ask our partners. And if we really fight for freedom and the defense of democracy together, we have the right to demand help at this critical and difficult moment. Freedom must be armed no less than tyranny," he said in a video message Wednesday evening.

Speaking about a phone call Wednesday with US President Joe Biden, Zelensky said he thanked the United States for a $1 billion humanitarian aid package and an additional $500 million in direct budget aid.

"I emphasized that now is a turning point. I told President Biden what Ukraine needs and was as frank with him as possible. Now it is especially important to lend a shoulder to Ukraine," he said.