Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told CNN that he is going to present a “victory plan” to US officials during his upcoming visit, with a key focus on obtaining approval for the use of long-range weapons against targets inside Russia.
The Ukrainian President noted in an article published by CNN on 21 September:
“We do have long-range weapons. But let’s just say not the amount we need,” Zelenskyy said on the previous day, adding that “neither the US nor the United Kingdom gave us permission to use these weapons on the territory of Russia.”
The Ukrainian leader attributed the allies’ hesitation to fears of escalation. However, he expressed optimism about the potential for changing minds, stating,
“We have had some decisions in the history of our relationship with Biden, some very interesting and difficult dialogues. He would later change his mind.”
Zelenskyy’s US visit is expected to include participation in the United Nations General Assembly in New York. On 22 September, he is anticipated to visit the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant in Pennsylvania, which produces critical 155 millimeter artillery shells used in Ukraine’s war efforts, according to a source familiar with the plans.
During his visit, Zelenskyy plans to meet with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. He expressed interest in discussing his victory plan with Harris, considering the potential changes in US leadership after the November elections.
“We need to talk to each of the candidates about their perception of this,” Zelenskyy said.
The Ukrainian president also mentioned his intention to meet with former president Donald Trump, who recently refrained from stating whether he wanted Ukraine to win the war during a debate.
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