Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks on Thursday with the leaders of Britain, France, Italy, and the incoming NATO chief to rally support for his proposed “victory plan.” As the conflict with Russia reaches a crucial juncture, Zelenskyy aims to secure additional military backing to strengthen Ukraine’s position ahead of potential peace negotiations.
Discussions On Military Support And Strategy
Zelenskyy met with NATO chief Mark Rutte and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London, before travelling to Paris and Rome. During the discussions, he raised the issue of whether Ukraine could use Western-supplied long-range missiles against targets within Russia. Zelenskyy has pushed for the United States and Britain to permit such use, a stance supported by France but opposed by other Western allies like Italy.
“We discussed it today, but in the end, it is up to the individual allies to decide,” Rutte said after the talks, adding that no final decisions had been made.
British Prime Minister Starmer reiterated the UK’s current position, stating there has been no change in policy regarding the use of long-range missiles inside Russian territory.
France’s Continued Support
In Paris, Zelenskyy met with French President Emmanuel Macron, who confirmed that France remains committed to supporting Ukraine despite internal political challenges. Macron announced that France would uphold its current commitments, which include €3 billion in financial support and training for 3,000 Ukrainian troops. Additionally, France will provide Mirage fighter jets to Ukraine at the start of next year.
Macron assured that France’s aid aims to put Ukraine in a stronger position for potential peace talks without compromising its territorial integrity. “It was important to exchange with the president on the coming weeks and months regarding military and diplomatic work ahead,” Macron stated.
Italy’s Stance And European Unity
In Italy, Zelenskyy met with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who expressed unwavering support for Ukraine but clarified that Italy opposes the use of its Storm Shadow missiles against Russia. Meloni emphasised that Italy’s assistance is intended to bolster Ukraine’s stance at the negotiating table, stating, “Our support is to ensure Ukraine can negotiate peace from a position of strength, without being forced to surrender.”
The meetings across Europe showcased the diverse perspectives of Ukraine’s Western allies, but also highlighted their collective resolve to continue backing Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.
Ukraine’s Position And Upcoming Peace Talks
Zelenskyy’s European tour comes at a time when the war with Russia is at a critical point. With the US presidential election approaching and winter looming, there is increasing pressure to secure more military aid to shift the balance on the battlefield. Zelenskyy hinted that the details of his “victory plan” would be presented in early November during a peace summit.
However, the Ukrainian president ruled out any discussion of a ceasefire, emphasising the need for a “just end” to the war that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Western Concerns Over Missile Use
The use of Western-supplied missiles by Ukraine to strike within Russian territory remains a contentious issue. While France supports allowing Ukraine to use its SCALP cruise missiles—similar to Britain’s Storm Shadow missiles—other allies are hesitant, fearing that such actions could escalate the conflict further and lead to direct confrontation with Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously warned that any decision by NATO countries to enable Ukraine to strike Russia would significantly alter the nature of the conflict, potentially drawing NATO directly into the war.
Upcoming Developments
Zelenskyy’s meetings this week are part of broader efforts to align support among Western allies and prepare for potential peace talks. The discussions in Europe are expected to continue, with a planned meeting in Berlin on Friday. The Ukrainian leader’s European tour follows the cancellation of a summit in Germany of Ukraine’s main backers, after US President Joe Biden withdrew to focus on addressing Hurricane Milton.
As Ukraine seeks to bolster its position both militarily and diplomatically, Zelenskyy’s “victory plan” will be closely scrutinised in the coming weeks.
(With Inputs from Reuters)
