Zelenskyy thanks Biden for saying Russia is committing 'genocide' in Ukraine: 'True words of a true leader'

Zelenskyy called US President Joe Biden a "true leader" for labeling Russia's attacks on Ukraine a genocide.

Just a week prior to changing his language, Biden had held out from using the word genocide and instead discussed war crimes.

Biden appeared to shift his rhetoric during a speech in Iowa.

Biden told reporters that "none of it should hinge on whether a dictator declares war and commits genocide half a world away."

Zelenskyy appreciated Biden for his words.

True words from a true leader. Zelenskyy said calling things by their names is necessary to stand up to evil.

—Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 12, 2022

There have been reports of mass graves, bodies lying in streets, and consistent bombardment of areas populated by civilians since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched an unprovoked war on Ukraine.

The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights estimated on Tuesday that there were at least 4,450 civilian casualties, including 1,892 deaths and 2,558 injuries.