Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is brimming with optimism, suggesting that the war with Russia might end sooner than expected. “I believe we’re nearer to peace than we realize; we just need to remain strong,” he shared with ABC News ahead of a significant visit to the U.S.
Zelensky is set to unveil his victory plan to President Joe Biden this week, focusing on bolstering Ukraine’s military rather than direct negotiations with Russia. He describes the plan as “a bridge to a diplomatic resolution,” aimed at compelling Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the conflict by showcasing Ukraine’s strength.
The Ukrainian leader is likely to press the U.S. and its allies to lift restrictions on long-range missiles, which could enable strikes deeper into Russian territory. He emphasized that the U.S. must take the lead on this decision, as other nations look to President Biden for guidance.
Despite Zelensky’s call for enhanced military support and his unwavering belief in Ukraine’s potential to triumph, some European leaders are advocating for caution. Czech President Petr Pavel told The New York Times that Ukraine should be “realistic” about reclaiming all lost territory, warning that parts of the country might remain under Russian control for years. He suggested a definitive victory for either side is unlikely, with the war’s conclusion probably landing “somewhere in between.”
