Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Washington, DC, ahead of the NATO summit, with a focus on garnering increased support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. The summit, set to begin on Tuesday, is expected to feature significant announcements regarding Ukraine.
Zelensky's primary objective is to strengthen allied backing for Ukraine, with meetings scheduled with President Joe Biden and a keynote speech planned during the summit. European diplomats have emphasized that Ukraine is the top priority for the gathering.
Amid ongoing hostilities and concerns about the war's protracted nature, questions loom over the effectiveness of the support Ukraine will receive. Additionally, apprehensions regarding the future of NATO in the event of a potential return to power by former President Donald Trump have been raised.
The timing of a recent Russian attack on Ukraine, which resulted in casualties and damage to critical infrastructure, just before the summit has been viewed as a deliberate provocation by Moscow. Ukrainian officials have underscored the urgent need for continued military assistance and the ability to target Russian forces within their territory.
The Biden administration's recent policy shift allowing US weapons to be used in strikes into Russian territory has been welcomed by Ukrainian officials, who seek further expansion of this policy to target Russian military assets across Russian soil.
Ukraine is also pushing for progress towards NATO membership, with officials expressing a desire for clear steps in this direction. Diplomatic efforts have intensified in the lead-up to the summit, with indications that Ukraine's path to NATO membership is considered irreversible.
A senior Biden administration official highlighted the substantial support NATO plans to provide to Ukraine, including the establishment of a command center and various training and logistical assistance to prepare Ukraine for potential membership.
The official stressed the seriousness of the effort to integrate Ukraine into NATO and the value of the support being extended to the country.
