Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held crucial talks in London with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and NATO leaders on Thursday, seeking continued military and financial backing for Ukraine’s ongoing war against Russia. Zelenskyy's diplomatic visit is part of his broader effort to rally support for Ukraine's "victory plan," a strategy aimed at ensuring decisive gains against Russian forces and achieving a lasting peace on Ukraine's terms.
At 10 Downing Street, Zelenskyy and Starmer discussed the necessary support Ukraine requires in the coming months to maintain its momentum on the battlefield. While specifics of the “victory plan” remain closely guarded, Zelenskyy has emphasized the need for rapid decisions from Western allies to sustain Ukraine’s defense. His meetings come at a pivotal moment in the war, with Ukraine's counteroffensive still facing stiff resistance from entrenched Russian positions.
Zelensky – You did not need to put out the red carpet for me.
Larry @Number10cat – They didn’t. pic.twitter.com/sr5Yl7IQBI
— Mark Conway (@MarkConway87) October 10, 2024
During the talks, NATO’s new Secretary-General Mark Rutte joined the discussions, underscoring the alliance's commitment to supporting Ukraine. Zelenskyy has been advocating for greater access to advanced weaponry, including long-range missiles like the UK-supplied Storm Shadow missiles. However, while Britain reiterated its strong support for Ukraine, it maintained its stance on limiting certain military capabilities, such as the use of these long-range weapons on Russian soil.
Zelenskyy’s broader "victory plan" hinges not only on military success but also on economic resilience. The Ukrainian president has worked to secure commitments for air defense systems, energy infrastructure, and additional weapons purchases. His visit to London is one stop in a series of meetings with key Western leaders, including those in Paris and Berlin, as he seeks to strengthen Ukraine’s defenses before winter sets in. This effort coincides with Ukrainian lawmakers at home approving tax hikes designed to raise billions for national defense.
Zelensky now wants a CEASEFIRE!!!
I wonder why? pic.twitter.com/LvSB9prwp5
— Juanita Broaddrick (@atensnut) October 10, 2024
The Ukrainian leader has made it clear that time is of the essence. Zelenskyy has repeatedly called for swift decisions from allies, warning that delays could hinder Ukraine’s ability to fend off Russian advances and retake occupied territories. According to him, critical decisions regarding military aid and financial assistance must be made by the end of the year if Ukraine is to succeed in pushing back Russian forces by 2025.
Zelenskyy’s efforts to secure more support come amid mounting pressure. While the Ukrainian military has achieved notable victories, such as destroying Russian drone arsenals and making gains in key regions, the war has settled into a grueling attrition phase. Both sides are experiencing heavy losses, and Ukraine’s reliance on Western weaponry and financial aid has become increasingly apparent. As winter approaches, Kyiv is keenly aware that it must bolster its defenses to avoid giving Russia any strategic advantages during the harsh season.
Beyond London, Zelenskyy is set to meet French President Emmanuel Macron and other European leaders to further promote his plan. In each of these meetings, he is expected to push for immediate delivery of promised aid and make the case for new rounds of military assistance. Zelenskyy has described his plan as a pathway to peace, one that ensures Ukraine's territorial integrity is restored and Russian aggression is decisively countered.
The success of Zelenskyy’s "victory plan" largely depends on the continued political will of Western allies, particularly the United States. U.S. President Joe Biden has played a central role in coordinating Western support for Ukraine, and Zelenskyy has stressed that many aspects of his strategy depend on American backing. With the U.S. presidential elections on the horizon, there are concerns that future U.S. support could waver, especially if former President Donald Trump, who has been critical of extensive U.S. aid to Ukraine, returns to office.
