Zelenskyy's "victory plan" remains unclear as Ukraine seeks US support

More than a week after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented his "victory plan" to key US officials, details about the strategy and its reception remain largely unclear.

As Kyiv intensifies its efforts to secure additional international support ahead of the US elections, the stakes for Ukraine are higher than ever, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

While Zelensky’s administration has kept the specifics of the victory plan under wraps, it is believed to focus on either expedited NATO membership or binding security guarantees from Ukraine’s Western allies. This plan was shared with President Joe Biden and other top officials during Zelensky’s recent visit to Washington, which was viewed as a crucial opportunity for him to advocate for ongoing US support.

However, the trip did not resonate as intended. Biden maintained his stance against allowing US-provided longer-range missiles to be used in strikes inside Russia. Furthermore, Zelenskyy found himself navigating a politically charged environment, with influential Republicans largely critical or dismissive of his proposals. A hastily arranged meeting with Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump marked their first interaction since the start of the war, illustrating the complicated political landscape Zelenskyy faces.

The challenges for Ukraine are compounded by its reliance on the United States as its primary ally in the conflict against Russia. As the war enters its third year and attention shifts towards new escalations in the Middle East, Ukraine is left uncertain about the longevity of American support.

Zelensky is scheduled to make another appeal for his victory plan next week at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting in Ramstein, Germany, which President Biden will attend. Although Zelensky was unable to persuade the US to lift missile restrictions, Kyiv may secure some form of aid during this upcoming conference, according to a Western diplomat who requested anonymity to discuss sensitive matters.

In particular, NATO countries are reportedly considering ways to provide Ukraine with clearer pathways toward future membership in the alliance, though these steps are likely to fall short of the immediate actions Kyiv has been seeking. 

By Khagan Isayev