Zelensky says Ukraine 'victory plan' depends on quick decisions by allies

Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox

European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy attend a joint press conference, amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict, in Kyiv, Ukraine September 20, 2024. REUTERS/Valentyn Ogirenko

European Commission president Ursula Von der Leyen (left) and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivering a joint press conference, in Kyiv, on Sept 20.

PHOTO: REUTERS

Follow topic:

KYIV - Ukraine's "victory plan" in the war against Russia depends on quick decisions being taken by allies this year, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sept 20 during a visit by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Mr Zelensky told a joint press conference with Dr von der Leyen that Ukraine planned to use a proposed multi-billion dollar European Union loan for air defence, energy and domestic weapons purchases.

Mr Zelensky singled out the importance of US President Joe Biden to

the victory plan,

which he said the two leaders will discuss when they meet.

The Ukrainian leader is

travelling to the United States

next week.

"Most of the decisions from the plan depend specifically on him (Biden). On other allies too, but there are certain points which depend on the goodwill and support of the United States," Mr Zelensky said.

Mr Zelensky has provided regular updates on the plan's preparation but has given few clues to the contents, indicating only that it aims to create terms acceptable to Ukraine after more than two and a half years of war following Russia's full-scale invasion.

"The entire plan is predicated upon quick decisions from our partners. The plan is predicated upon decisions which should take place from October to December, and not delaying these processes," he told the press conference alongside Dr von der Leyen.

Mr Zelensky said in his nightly video address that he was counting on Mr Biden’s support for the plan, intended not only to bring peace but also strengthen his country.

“Ukraine is counting very much on this support,” he said.

“And this is fair. Because when one nation wins the battle for its independence and adherence to international law, the whole world wins.” REUTERS

See more on