Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Washington, DC, ahead of the high-stakes NATO summit, with long-term support for Ukraine in its war against Russia topping the agenda. Zelensky aims to bolster allied support for his country, meet with President Joe Biden, and deliver a significant speech during the summit.
The US has promised substantial announcements regarding Ukraine during the three-day global gathering that commenced on Tuesday. Zelensky emphasized the importance of decisive actions from America and Europe to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities against Russian aggression.
At the summit, Ukraine will advocate for additional air defense systems, F-16 jets, and enhanced security guarantees, including weapons, finances, and political support. NATO members have underscored that Ukraine is the primary focus of the summit.
Despite the show of support, concerns persist about the prolonged conflict and the potential impact of the upcoming US presidential election on NATO's future. Zelensky's visit coincided with deadly Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities, including a strike on Ukraine's largest children's hospital, underscoring the urgent need for continued military assistance.
The Biden administration recently adjusted its policy to permit US weapons for strikes into Russian territory engaging in cross-border attacks. Ukrainian officials seek further expansion of this policy to target Russian military assets across Russian territory.
Moreover, Ukraine is pushing for clear progress towards NATO membership, with discussions indicating an irreversible path to membership. The alliance is set to unveil substantial commitments to prepare Ukraine for its future role within NATO.
Overall, Zelensky's visit to Washington aims to secure vital support for Ukraine's defense and advance its NATO aspirations amidst ongoing challenges in the region.
