President Volodymyr Zelensky will present his “victory plan” for Ukraine to NATO defense ministers in Brussels, under the shadow of upcoming US elections. Zelensky seeks increased Western support and will attend talks with EU leaders.
NATO chief Mark Rutte will hold a press conference with Zelensky, but remains cautious about endorsing Zelensky’s plan that includes an immediate invitation to NATO, opposed by the US and Germany.
‘Very difficult period’
Rutte acknowledges Ukraine’s path to membership but stresses NATO’s focus on providing military aid. Zelensky’s plan rejects territorial concessions and calls for Western allies to lift weapon use restrictions against Russia.
Ukraine’s allies are aware of the urgency due to ongoing conflicts in the eastern region. The country faces challenges in obtaining air defense systems amidst Russian assaults.