Trump meets with Zelenskiy to discuss ending war
Former US President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskiy met in New York to discuss the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and US support for Ukraine ahead of the upcoming presidential election.
In a brief statement to the press before their meeting, Trump and Zelenskiy expressed their intention to delve into the current situation in the region and address the issue of US backing for Ukraine. Trump, who has previously criticized the Biden administration for its handling of the conflict and claimed he could swiftly resolve it if he were in power, reiterated his belief that he could bring an end to the war if elected president.
“We will closely collaborate with both sides and strive to reach a resolution. I have strong ties with Ukraine and President Putin. If I emerge victorious, we will swiftly tackle this issue,” Trump remarked.
Zelenskiy also emphasized his desire to meet with Trump, as well as President Biden and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, during his visit to New York, underscoring the importance of engaging with both US presidential candidates on the matter of ending the war.
“We share a common goal of putting an end to the war in Ukraine and ensuring Ukraine emerges victorious. Putin cannot prevail, and I look forward to discussing the specifics with you,” Zelenskiy conveyed to Trump.
Additionally, Zelenskiy expressed gratitude towards President Biden and the American people for allocating $7.9 billion in new defense aid to Ukraine, including the Patriot air defense system. He hailed the assistance as crucial for Ukraine’s security and emphasized their commitment to utilizing the aid effectively to achieve their objectives.
The aid package will encompass various defense equipment and materials aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities, including the Patriot air defense systems, drones, and ammunition. Zelenskiy also commended the US decision to expand training programs for F-16 pilots and implement stringent sanctions against Russia to curb its aggressive actions against Ukraine.
Highlighting the enduring alliance between Ukraine and the United States in safeguarding freedom and security, Zelenskiy reiterated their appreciation for the unwavering bipartisan support from the US in countering Russian aggression. The meeting between Trump and Zelenskiy underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing the conflict and upholding peace in the region.
