But there was suspicion that a trip was in the planning given the gaps on Bidens schedule.
The president gave the final go ahead for the trip on Friday, according to White House officials.
The presidents entourage was also small, including Jake Sullivan, Jen OMalley Dillon and Annie Tomasini.
U.S. President Joe Biden meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr ZelenskyGetty Images
CNNs Kaitlan Collins, for instance, was in Warsaw to co-anchor CNN This Morningfrom there.
The Americans stand with you, and the world stands with you, Biden said.
At one moment during the trip, air raid sirens were sounded as they left St. Michaels Cathedral.
Appearing with Biden after their meeting, Zelensky called the negotiations with the U.S. over additional support very fruitful.
They were very important and crucial, he said.
Under discussion, he said, were long range missiles that have not been provided to Ukraine before.
Biden recalled how he and Zelensky spoke by phone a year ago as the Russian invasion was just starting.
You told me that you could hear explosions in the background, Biden said.
Ill never forget that.
Ask them to support Ukraine.
One year later, Kyiv stands, and Ukraine stands.
Democracy stands, Biden said.
The president arrived in Kyiv about 1 AM ET and left about five hours later.
Reporters involved in covering the visit were sworn to secrecy.
It was then that they were informed of the plans by Biden to travel to Kyiv.
The plane departed as Air Force One at 4:15 AM.
Biden then went by motorcade to the Przemysi Glowmy train station for the trip to Kyiv.
Ten hours later, at about 8 AM Kyiv time, the train arrived, with U.S.
Ambassador Bridget Brink waiting.
Its good to be back in Kyiv, Biden said after stepping off the train.
Another nine journalists were added at the presidential palace.
