Zelensky Doubts Trump's Ukraine War Solution, Presents "Victory Plan" to US

Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine's president, has expressed skepticism about former US President Donald Trump's assertions regarding a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In a recent interview with The New Yorker, Zelensky shared his concerns about the approach of certain American politicians towards the war.

Zelensky's comments come as he embarks on a crucial tour of the United States, which began on September 21, 2024. The Ukrainian leader's visit includes a stop at a weapons factory in Pennsylvania, where he inspected the production of 155mm artillery shells destined for use in Ukraine's defense efforts.

The timing of Zelensky's US tour is significant, occurring just two months before the November 2024 presidential election. With polls indicating a narrow lead for Democratic nominee Kamala Harris over Donald Trump, the future of US support for Ukraine hangs in the balance.

Addressing Trump's claims about ending the war rapidly, Zelensky stated, "My impression is that Trump doesn't truly understand how to halt the conflict, despite his beliefs." He emphasized the complexity of the situation, noting that deeper examination often leads to less clarity.

Zelensky also expressed concerns about JD Vance, Trump's running mate, describing his stance as "dangerous" and "excessively radical." The Ukrainian president warned against any peace deals that would solidify Russian control over captured territories, arguing that such agreements would disregard the sacrifices made by Ukrainian soldiers and potentially encourage further aggression by other nations.

"Any leader who suggests ending the war by accepting the status quo, with Ukraine relinquishing its land, should be held accountable for potentially triggering a global conflict."

The centerpiece of Zelensky's visit is the presentation of his "Victory Plan" to US leaders, including President Joe Biden, Vice President Harris, and potentially Trump. This plan comes at a critical juncture in the two-and-a-half-year-long war, with Russian forces slowly advancing in eastern Ukraine's Donbas region while Ukrainian forces maintain a presence in Russia's Kursk region.

While details of the "Victory Plan" remain undisclosed, reports suggest it may include strategies for maintaining Ukrainian forces within Russian territory and a request for permission to use Western-made long-range missiles against targets in Russia. The Kremlin has warned that such actions could be interpreted as direct NATO involvement in the conflict.

As the war approaches its third year, Zelensky continues to emphasize the importance of international support. He argues that Ukraine's resistance has "shielded America from total war" and warns that failing to back his plan could result in a prolonged and devastating conflict.

The outcome of the upcoming US presidential election could significantly impact the future of American support for Ukraine. As the international community watches closely, the decisions made in Washington in the coming months may prove crucial in shaping the course of the ongoing conflict and its global implications.