Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to unveil his “plan for victory” during a visit to the United States this week, where he will meet President Joe Biden, Congress, and key figures in the upcoming US presidential election. Zelensky’s plan, which he has been previewing ahead of his visit, focuses on securing additional military support, pursuing diplomatic efforts to end the war, and holding Russia accountable for its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Zelensky will also attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York and address a session of the Security Council. His visit comes as the Biden administration prepares a new $375 million military aid package for Ukraine, which has been critical in helping Kyiv resist Russian aggression.
“This fall will determine the future of this war,” Zelensky said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, emphasising the significance of the upcoming months for Ukraine’s military and diplomatic efforts.
Zelensky is expected to discuss his plan with the two leading candidates in the US election: Vice-President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.
Trump has been vocal in his criticism of US support for Ukraine, calling it a waste of resources, and has praised Russian President Vladimir Putin in the past. Trump has also teased a plan to end the war “within 24 hours” if elected, though details remain unclear.
Despite Trump’s stance, he has indicated that he will “probably” meet Zelensky during the Ukrainian leader’s US trip. Zelensky, for his part, expressed gratitude for the support his country has received from the United States, which has been Ukraine’s largest donor since the start of the conflict, contributing $56 billion to its defense.
Zelensky’s plan for victory outlines three main priorities: increasing weapons donations, strengthening diplomatic efforts to pressure Russia into peace negotiations, and ensuring accountability for Russia’s actions during the invasion. Ukraine has been pushing for more long-range missiles from its Western allies, including the US, to strike targets deep within Russian territory. However, President Biden has not yet approved Ukraine’s request for US-made long-range weapons, citing concerns about NATO’s direct involvement in the war.
Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that any use of long-range missiles by Ukraine would be considered direct participation by NATO in the conflict, raising tensions as Zelensky seeks to bolster his military’s capabilities.
Following his meetings in Washington, Zelensky is scheduled to travel to New York to deliver a speech at the UN General Assembly on Wednesday. His remarks will likely focus on the global implications of the war, as he continues to rally international support for Ukraine’s cause.
As the war enters a critical phase, Zelensky’s visit to the US marks an important moment for Ukraine’s efforts to secure additional military aid and maintain the backing of its allies amid growing international concerns over the protracted conflict.
Chioma Kalu
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