Today at 17:27
Zelenskyy intends to present the Victory Plan to the country’s President Joe Biden, as well as to other leaders of partner countries. Also Zelenskyy stated, that this autumn that it is decided what will happen next in this war.
Here is the interview with Oleksandr Kraiev, North America studies program director in Foreign policy council “Ukrainian Prism”.
— Mr. Zelenskyy intends to present the “Victory Plan” to President Joe Biden, as well as to leaders of partner countries. Why is it important to present this plan in person to Joe Biden, for example? After all, it could be sent via diplomatic mail or simply over the internet.
— There are several factors influencing Mr. Zelenskyy’s decision to go directly and conclude this negotiation in person.
First of all, we have the United Nations General Assembly, which is considered the foundation for international negotiations, especially on matters of war and peace. When you need to gather a broad coalition, it’s essential to be there in person. In addition to the “Victory Plan,” there’s also the second summit of the Ukrainian peace formula.
It’s largely a matter of convenience, since all the leaders necessary for these discussions will be present in New York. This allows for face-to-face negotiations, which are more productive and can happen faster. The results of these talks will directly impact Ukrainian diplomacy and be communicated quickly to the Ukrainian people.
Moreover, presenting proposals like this directly to the international audience and media boosts Ukraine’s diplomatic presence, showing that we are ready to take steps forward.
— Zelenskyy has said that this autumn will decide what happens next in the war, possibly bringing Ukraine to a victorious point. Do you agree with that?
— That’s a very optimistic view. Of course, we are doing everything possible to stop Russian aggression and protect Ukraine, but a lot of preparation and diplomatic effort is still needed.
If this autumn doesn’t bring a complete resolution, it will at least lay the groundwork for peace and give Ukraine a strong position in future negotiations.
— Do you think Ukraine is aiming to gain the upper hand in the war, with more artillery and possibly permission to hit Russian territory with missiles?
— Yes, that’s part of the strategy. Our Western partners have consistently said Ukraine should decide when and how to start negotiations.
Their goal is to provide us with everything we need to enter those talks from a position of strength.
This includes military support and diplomatic efforts, like the “Victory Plan” presented by President Zelenskyy at the UN General Assembly. All of this is aimed at creating the conditions for successful negotiations.
— Lastly, Zelenskyy will speak at the UN Security Council and the General Assembly. What can these appeals achieve for Ukraine?
— I’m a bit skeptical about the effectiveness of international organizations right now. Russia’s 2022 aggression broke the previous international system where diplomacy and rule of law were central.
However, there is still some value in global forums like the UN, especially when it comes to gaining support from the Global South—countries in Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Zelenskyy’s speeches at the UN are important for gaining their support, not just for Ukraine, but for international stability and preventing further aggression worldwide.
Read also: UN General Assembly – Ukrainian Expectations Explained. Interview with Yevheniia Kravchuk
