Zelenskiy and Trump: Strategic Talks on Ukraine's Security

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy aims to secure new sanctions against Russia in meetings with Donald Trump, seeking U.S. support for Kyiv's defense efforts. Despite tensions over Moscow's military actions, the discussions stress Ukraine's strategic value to its allies, focusing on integrating European air defense networks.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is scheduled to meet with former U.S. President Donald Trump at the United Nations to advocate for heightened sanctions against Russia, bolstering Kyiv's struggle in the ongoing conflict. Zelenskiy's agenda includes enhancing Ukraine's air defense capabilities and facilitating a meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin under Trump's peace initiative.

The Ukrainian delegation underscores Russia's reluctance for dialogue by pointing out Moscow's unpreparedness for such a meeting. With the U.S. President's recent criticism of European nations' continued purchase of Russian energy, Kyiv's hopes for new sanctions are dimming, despite reliance on U.S. intelligence.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister highlighted its willingness to integrate its air defense with Western networks following allegations of Russian airspace violations over Estonia and Poland. Kyiv leverages its military expertise as a strategic asset to its allies, even as hopes for direct U.S. military aid remain uncertain.

(With inputs from agencies.)