With the presidential election looming, he knows that a Trump victory could imperil Ukraine
Volodymyr Zelensky knows that both time and political support in the U.S. are running out. As the Ukrainian president arrived in the United States on 22 September, he was preparing for a crucial week of diplomacy that could determine the future of Ukraine’s war against Russia. In a video message filmed aboard his plane, Zelensky declared, “This fall will determine the future of this war.” His statement reflects the gravity of the situation as the war continues into its second year with no clear end in sight.
The upcoming months are critical for Ukraine, which faces mounting pressure on its military and infrastructure. As winter approaches, Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukraine’s energy grid, systematically targeting power stations and critical infrastructure to break the resolve of Ukrainian civilians and soldiers alike. Despite these challenges, Ukraine has managed to hold firm, seizing hundreds of square miles of territory in southern Russia’s Kursk region. However, holding onto these gains will require additional resources, including more troops and ammunition.
At the same time, Russian forces have been advancing towards Pokrovsk, a strategically important city in the Donetsk region. Its role as a key road and rail hub makes it vital to both military logistics and civilian movement. The fight for this city could have far-reaching implications for the balance of power in eastern Ukraine.
Zelensky’s visit to Washington is not just about securing military support, though. It is also about navigating the increasingly complex American political landscape. With the 2024 presidential election fast approaching, Zelensky is aware that a victory for Donald Trump could undermine Ukraine’s efforts. Trump has made no secret of his isolationist foreign policy, which includes reducing U.S. involvement in global conflicts. For Zelensky, the prospect of a Trump presidency could result in a sharp decline in American aid to Ukraine, which could significantly alter the course of the war.
Zelensky’s team has been working hard to build bipartisan support for Ukraine, knowing that the American political system is polarized. The Ukrainian president has met with lawmakers from both parties to reinforce the message that U.S. involvement is crucial not only for Ukraine’s survival but also for upholding global security and democracy. He has made it clear that the stakes of this conflict extend far beyond Ukraine’s borders, with the future of Europe and the international order at risk.
The message Zelensky is sending to the American public and its leaders is one of urgency. With every passing day, the situation grows more dire, and as Russia continues its brutal assault, Ukraine’s need for continued support from the West becomes more apparent. This support, however, is not guaranteed, especially with the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming election in the United States.
As Zelensky works to secure continued U.S. backing, he knows that the fall of 2024 could mark a pivotal moment in the war’s trajectory. With American political dynamics shifting, Zelensky’s outreach to both lawmakers and the public aims to ensure that the U.S. remains a steadfast ally. He hopes to lock in support for the difficult months ahead, knowing that Ukraine’s survival depends in part on maintaining the strong ties it has forged with the West.
