Zelenskyy has arrived in the US to meet Trump and hold talks on sanctions against Russia
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has arrived in the United States on a one-day visit. The head of state announced his arrival on social media.
In Washington, Zelenskyy plans to hold a meeting with US President Donald Trump, his team, and American politicians who may support the strengthening of Ukraine’s defence.
“I am now in the United States of America. I’m scheduled to meet with President Trump, his team and those who can support our defence. The number one priority is anti-ballistic defence and strategic cooperation with America. Peace must be brought closer,” the president said.
According to information previously published by Reuters, the talks between Zelenskyy and Trump are due to take place in the Oval Office at the White House. Topics for the meeting are said to include defence cooperation, the possibility of launching production of missiles for Patriot systems in Ukraine, the peace process, and the Graham-Blumenthal bill, which provides for tougher sanctions against Russia and countries that purchase Russian energy resources.
Zelenskyy will also take part in a farewell ceremony for Senator Lindsey Graham, whom the Ukrainian president described as one of Ukraine’s most consistent supporters in the US Senate.
During his visit, the head of state will hold a separate meeting with members of Congress and senators working on the sanctions bill. According to US media reports, all 100 members of the US Senate have been invited to the meeting at the Capitol.
The bill to tighten sanctions against Russia enjoys broad bipartisan support in the Senate. It is expected to be one of the key topics of Zelenskyy’s talks with US lawmakers.
Earlier, Reuters reported that the Ukrainian side had expressed an interest in holding a meeting with Donald Trump during his visit to Washington. According to the agency, Ukrainian and US officials also discussed the possibility of drawing up new proposals to end the war, including the option of a ceasefire in the air.
