Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Monday his upcoming visit to the United States to discuss the potential provision of long-range weapons, including Tomahawk missiles, to bolster Ukraine’s defense against Russia. The visit, scheduled for later this week, will include meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump, defense and energy companies, and members of Congress. Zelenskyy emphasized that the primary focus of the talks would be enhancing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities and long-range strike potential to maintain pressure on Russia. This follows a ‘very productive’ phone call between Zelenskyy and Trump, during which the U.S. president warned Russia of the possibility of supplying Ukraine with advanced missile systems if Moscow does not de-escalate the conflict. The move has sparked ‘extreme concern’ from Moscow, with Russian President Vladimir Putin previously stating that such actions would severely damage U.S.-Russia relations. Zelenskyy also highlighted the need for U.S. assistance to protect Ukraine’s electricity and gas networks, which have been relentlessly targeted by Russian attacks. The Ukrainian delegation, led by Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, is already in the U.S. for preliminary discussions. Meanwhile, Russia has intensified its strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, particularly in the Black Sea port of Odesa and the Chernihiv region, resulting in casualties and widespread damage. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas, who met with Zelenskyy, pledged continued pressure on Moscow and expressed optimism that EU member states would overcome objections to a new sanctions package against Russia, despite potential delays.
Zelenskyy to visit Washington this week seeking long-range weapons and a Trump meeting
