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Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, is making a rare trip to Washington this week, pleading his case for American military aid, something which has long been a lifeline for his country but is now increasingly in doubt.

Julian Barnes, who covers international security for The Times, explains what has brought Ukraine to the most perilous point since the war began nearly two years ago.

On today’s episode

Background reading

• The U.S. and Ukraine search for a new strategy after a failed counteroffensive.

• The Ukrainian leader will be appealing for more military support from the United States as an emboldened Russia steps up its attacks on his country.

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Julian E. Barnes contributed reporting.

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