By Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in the United States on Sunday for a crucial visit aimed at presenting Kyiv’s plan to end more than two and a half years of war with Russia.
Zelensky’s trip includes meetings with President Joe Biden, as well as presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, to discuss what he calls a “victory plan” for achieving a “fair and stable peace” in Ukraine.
“We have arrived in the United States of America,” Zelensky announced on social media. “The plan for Ukraine’s victory will be on the table for all our allies.”
The Ukrainian leader’s visit comes amid intense fighting in eastern Ukraine and as Kyiv holds swathes of Russia’s Kursk region. It also follows weeks of Ukraine pressing Western allies to allow the use of long-range weapons to strike targets deep inside Russia.
Zelensky is expected to urge Biden to reconsider his opposition to Ukraine’s use of NATO-supplied weapons on Russian territory. The U.S. and UK have so far refused permission, fearing potential escalation.
“We have had some decisions in the history of our relationship with Biden — very interesting and difficult dialogues,” Zelensky said earlier this week. “He later changed his point of view.”
Moscow has warned that such a move by NATO countries would be considered an act of war against Russia.
Zelensky’s itinerary includes stops in Pennsylvania, New York, and Washington. He plans to present his proposals to the U.S. Congress, Vice President Harris, and former President Trump.
While details of Ukraine’s plan remain undisclosed, Zelensky has indicated it involves “quick and concrete steps by our strategic partners” to strengthen Ukraine’s military capabilities and secure its place in global security architecture.
The Ukrainian president also mentioned plans to invite Russia to a potential second international peace summit in November, although Moscow has already declined, citing President Vladimir Putin’s conditions for talks.
As Zelensky seeks support for his peace initiatives, the conflict continues to claim lives. This weekend, Russian attacks on Ukraine killed six people, including two children, while a strike on Kharkiv wounded 21 in a residential area.
