Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed hope on Friday that US President Joe Biden would support his proposed “victory plan” to end the ongoing war with Russia, ahead of his upcoming visit to Washington.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Kyiv with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Zelensky emphasized the importance of US backing for his strategy. “I really hope that he will support this plan,” Zelensky said, referring to his discussions with Biden scheduled for the coming days.
The plan, designed for implementation between October and December, aims to end a conflict that has claimed thousands of lives. Zelensky added, “The plan is designed for decisions that will have to happen from October to December… We would like that very much. Then we believe that the plan will work.”
Zelensky’s trip to the US follows a summer marked by fierce fighting, with Russian forces making gains in eastern Ukraine while Kyiv holds control of parts of Russia’s Kursk region. During his visit, Zelensky is expected to meet President Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, highlighting Ukraine’s efforts to garner bipartisan support in the US.
Zelensky also announced his intention to host another international peace summit in November, where he plans to outline his vision for ending the war. Notably, Russia will be invited to participate.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Moscow will only engage in peace talks if Ukraine agrees to surrender four of its regions currently occupied by Russian forces.
