Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is promoting his ‘victory plan’ that aims to end the war with Russia while on a tour of European capitals. His proposals detail the need for European support as half of Ukraine’s electricity grid is currently out of order due to the conflict. Zelenskyy has met with leaders from Italy, the UK, France, and NATO to discuss his plan and secure further military aid for Ukraine.
During his talks, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reiterated Italy’s support for Ukraine and expressed the international community’s responsibility to assist in the efforts to end the war. Zelenskyy discussed the victory plan with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, emphasizing the importance of investing in Ukraine’s security to support Europe’s broader security interests.
Zelenskyy has yet to publicly reveal the details of his proposals for victory, but his efforts to secure European support come amidst concerns over potential changes in US policy towards Ukraine if former President Donald Trump were to return to office. Zelenskyy had planned to present his blueprint at a meeting in Germany, but it was postponed due to US President Joe Biden’s absence during the hurricane crisis in Florida.
Macron and Zelenskyy discussed the plan in Paris, with Zelenskyy outlining his intentions to secure more military aid and permission for Ukrainian forces to carry out long-range strikes. While some European allies appear willing to support Ukraine, Biden has been hesitant about escalating the conflict. The situation remains challenging for all parties involved, with Ukraine heavily relying on Western support to combat Russian aggression.
As Russia continues its advance into eastern Ukraine, Zelenskyy’s victory plan seeks to strengthen Ukraine both geopolitically and on the battlefield before engaging in any dialogue with Russia. Ukraine has been preparing for a harsh winter and potential changes in Western support by increasing domestic arms production and raising taxes to fund the war effort. Zelenskyy’s tour is crucial in securing support from key European allies like Germany and ensuring Ukraine’s ability to resist Russian aggression.
