Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in New York to attend sessions at the United Nations General Assembly, according to the Ukrinform state news agency. His visit comes as the US prepares a $375 million military aid package for Ukraine, marking a shift from the smaller aid packages that have been sent in recent months.
During his visit, Zelenskyy plans to meet with US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. He is expected to present a “victory plan” for Ukraine’s ongoing war with Russia, urging the US to provide more advanced military support, including long-range weapons.
Zelenskyy hopes to accelerate the delivery of weapons, warning that delays could reduce their effectiveness as Ukraine braces for harsher attacks from Russia, particularly on its energy infrastructure during the winter. The aid package may include artillery, patrol boats, and spare parts for HIMARS systems.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy waves from the back seat of a US Secret Service vehicle as his motorcade departs the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport. (AP photo)
The Ukrainian leader also seeks a potential meeting with Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, who has been critical of US aid to Ukraine, calling it a waste of money.
While Trump has indicated a meeting may happen, no specific date has been confirmed.
Zelenskyy’s push for advanced weapons comes amid concerns from Western allies like the US and UK, who are cautious about allowing Ukraine to strike deep into Russian territory, fearing it could escalate the conflict further.
Zelenskyy is expected to address these concerns during his meetings with US leaders.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s military has reported success in destroying Russian arms depots, including weapons sourced from North Korea, in recent drone strikes. These strikes, which reportedly destroyed thousands of tons of weapons, highlight the ongoing intensity of the conflict as Zelenskyy seeks more international support.
(With inputs from Reuters, AP, The Guardian)
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