Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s tepid reception in the United States 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, Zelensky sought to advance his “plan for victory,” hoping to secure additional military support and security guarantees from the United States and its allies.
Despite Zelensky’s efforts, Biden administration officials have been cautious about his proposals, fearing 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 territory.
Former President Donald Trump, after meeting with Zelensky, expressed a desire to reach a “fair deal” for both sides, but details remained unclear. Trump emphasized his good relationship with Putin, which raised concerns in Ukraine that such sentiments could threaten support for Kyiv.
The situation in eastern Ukraine remains critical, with Russian attacks on key Ukrainian logistics centers. Zelensky has insisted on the need to obtain longer-range missiles to strike Russian positions, but his calls for the Biden administration have not received support, despite open appeals from Kyiv and European allies.
Vice President Kamala Harris also assured continued support during her meeting with Zelensky, but it is clear that without a significant increase in military assistance, achieving Zelensky's goals, including the return of all occupied territories, remains in question.
Zelensky’s rhetoric has recently shifted toward the need to gain support to “force Russia to make peace.” After meeting with Trump, he noted that “Putin cannot win,” but that Ukraine needs significant military assistance to do so.
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 this could lead to an unprofitable deal with Russia.
Zelensky returned to Ukraine, where 14 people were reportedly injured in Russian airstrikes. He stressed that “Russia is dropping about 100 powerful cruise bombs every day,” pointing to the need for more support from international partners.
