Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented a “victory plan” addressing the parliament and partner countries, asking for support. His speech was directed not so much at the domestic audience as at the international community, which should continue to assist Ukraine. However, despite this call, quick results should not be expected.
Key points of the speech
Zelenskyy acknowledged that in recent months the Ukrainian army has been facing difficult times, and its offensive actions have significantly slowed down. This weakens the willingness of the West to help, but the president emphasized the importance of further support, as Ukraine’s security is the security of the entire Western world. As Zelenskyy noted, Ukraine’s defeat would pose a threat to Europe and the USA. Thus, by helping Ukraine, partners are helping themselves.
Priorities of the “victory plan”
The first demand expressed by Zelenskyy is to receive a clear invitation to NATO. He understands that there will be no quick accession, but this would send a powerful signal to Russia. Secondly, Ukraine seeks long-range weapons from the West to attack Russian territory. The third point involves creating a package of strategic deterrence, where several Western countries could deploy their weapons and observation systems in Ukraine, strengthening defense against Russian aggression.
Divergent views in the West
Not all countries are willing to support these ideas. Some European countries, such as the United Kingdom and Eastern European countries, are inclined towards stronger support for Ukraine, while the USA and Germany fear escalation from Russia. In particular, they are concerned about the possibility of a nuclear response to direct attacks on Russian territory or Ukraine’s accession to NATO.
Economic benefits for partners
Зelensky also emphasized the economic advantages for partners. He proposed deepened cooperation in the defense sector, where Ukraine has significant experience. In addition, the president openly spoke for the first time about Ukraine’s huge natural resources, such as uranium, titanium, lithium, and graphite, which could become an important economic factor for partners. According to Zelensky, these resources will either support the democratic world or remain under Russia’s control.
Challenges Within the Country
Despite its significance, the plan did not provide new answers to the main challenges facing Ukraine on the front lines. Military actions in many directions have not yet brought the expected breakthrough. In August, the Ukrainian army launched an offensive in the Kherson region, but this direction remains under Russia’s control.
Vision for the Future
Zelensky emphasized that even after the end of the war, Ukraine will remain an important player on the European continent, as its army is one of the strongest. It can become a key factor of stability in the region. However, Ukraine needs external support to be able to withstand aggression.
Thus, Zelensky’s “victory plan” involves not only military support but also deep economic cooperation with Western countries. However, for these initiatives to become a reality, the West must overcome its internal contradictions and make a strategic decision in favor of Ukraine.
