Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's chilly reception in the US this week was a testament to the growing constraints Ukraine faces after 2.5 years of war. During a series of meetings in New York and Washington, Zelenskyi tried to promote his "victory plan", hoping to receive additional military support and security guarantees from the United States and its allies.
Despite Zelenskyi's efforts, Biden administration officials have been cautious about his proposals because they fear an escalation that could provoke Moscow. President Biden announced a new military aid package, but refused to meet Zelensky's key demand — to allow the use of long-range missiles to attack Russian territories.
Former President Donald Trump, after meeting with Zelensky, expressed his desire to reach a "fair deal" for both sides, but the details remained unclear. Trump has emphasized his good relationship with Putin, raising fears in Ukraine that such sentiments could threaten Kyiv's support.
The situation in eastern Ukraine remains critical, with Russian attacks on key Ukrainian logistics centers. Zelensky insists on the need to acquire longer-range missiles to strike Russian positions, but his appeals to the Biden administration are not supported, despite open calls from Kyiv and European allies.
Vice President Kamala Harris also assured further support during the meeting with Zelensky, but it is clear that without a significant increase in military aid, the achievement of Zelensky's goals, including the return of all occupied territories, remains in question.
Lately, Zelenskyi's rhetoric has shifted towards the need to get support for "forcing Russia to make peace." After the meeting with Trump, he noted that "Putin cannot win", but for this Ukraine needs significant military assistance.
Some Republicans in the US, such as Senator Marco Rubio, support the idea of peace talks, but there are concerns in Ukraine and Europe that it could lead to a bad deal with Russia.
Zelensky returned to Ukraine, where, according to reports, 14 people were injured as a result of Russian airstrikes. He emphasized that "Russia drops about 100 powerful planning bombs every day", indicating the need for more support from international partners.
