President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine is set to present a victory plan to the White House, urging the Biden administration to act swiftly in supporting Kyiv’s campaign, a move that has been lacking since Russia invaded Ukraine two and a half years ago.
Concerns linger among Ukrainian officials, diplomats, and analysts about the feasibility of having the plan implemented before a new U.S. president takes office in January, fearing Western delays have worsened Ukraine’s losses.
While U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield has indicated cautious optimism about the plan’s potential success, doubts persist among many regarding how it will be executed.
Elements of Zelenskyy’s blueprint remain undisclosed until its formal presentation to President Joe Biden, but key aspects have surfaced, including the urgency for rapid decisions by Western allies, particularly regarding the security guarantee of NATO membership—a crucial demand for Kyiv and a point of contention with Moscow.
Additionally, the plan includes seeking approval to use long-range weapons to target deep inside Russian territory, which some of Ukraine’s supporters consider a red line.
The ongoing battle ensues in eastern Ukraine, where Ukrainian forces contend with one of the world’s most potent armies. As Zelenskyy prepares to present his plan to Biden, Ukrainian servicemen strive to maintain defensive lines in the strategic logistics hub of Vuhledar in the Donetsk region, underscoring the significance of U.S. support.
Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines express the urgent need for increased military assistance, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the necessity for substantial backing from allies.
Kyiv’s victory plan materializes amidst mounting pressure from Western allies and war-weary Ukrainians to pursue a cease-fire. The plan underscores the imperative for swift action by Ukraine’s partners to bolster its position significantly from October to December across military, political, diplomatic, and economic dimensions.
Zelenskyy has hinted at a military operation in Kursk, Russia, as part of the victory plan, showcasing Ukraine’s offensive capability despite challenges in the east, where Russian forces continue to pose a formidable threat.
The proposal is envisioned as a pathway to a Peace Summit in November, despite Russia’s refusal to participate. Ukrainian officials stress that any cease-fire agreement with Russia must impede Putin’s capacity to launch future invasions to safeguard Ukraine’s interests and uphold the sacrifices made.
Analysts caution against prolonging the current stalemate, underscoring the risk of further territorial losses for Ukraine and the bolstering of Russia’s military capabilities over time. Time is deemed critical in countering Russian aggression and equipping Ukraine with the necessary resources to deter future threats effectively.
In his recent address to the U.N. General Assembly, President Biden emphasized the imperative for unwavering support for Ukraine, urging continued vigilance and solidarity in the face of ongoing challenges.
