Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Washington, DC, ahead of the NATO summit, with a focus on garnering long-term support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. Zelensky aims to strengthen allied backing for his country, including meetings with President Joe Biden and delivering a significant speech during the summit.
Zelensky emphasized the need for decisive actions from the United States and Europe to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities against Russian aggression. He specifically highlighted the importance of air defense systems, F-16 jets, and additional security guarantees, including weapons, finances, and political support.
NATO members have underscored Ukraine as the primary focus of the summit, with discussions centered on providing substantial support to the country. However, concerns persist about the ongoing conflict and the potential impact of the upcoming U.S. presidential election on NATO's future.
The timing of a recent deadly Russian attack on Ukraine, just before the summit, was seen as a deliberate message from Putin to NATO countries. Ukrainian officials stressed the urgent need for continued military assistance and the ability to target Russian forces within Russian territory.
The Biden administration's recent policy shift allowing U.S. weapons to be used in strikes into Russian territory was welcomed by Ukrainian officials, who seek further expansion of this policy to target Russian military assets across Russian territory.
Ukraine also aims for progress towards NATO membership, with discussions indicating a positive trajectory in the lead-up to the summit. The alliance's joint communique suggests an 'irreversible' path for Ukraine's NATO membership, with substantial support and preparations underway to integrate Ukraine into the alliance effectively.
The Biden administration expressed a commitment to preparing Ukraine for its future role within NATO, emphasizing the importance of training, coordination, equipping, logistics, and force development to ensure Ukraine's readiness to assume responsibilities within the alliance.
Overall, the NATO summit in Washington, DC, holds significant importance for Ukraine as it seeks enhanced support and a clear path towards NATO membership amidst ongoing challenges in the region.
