Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy disclosed on Thursday that he had approached then-U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump last year with a request for long-range military weapons, contingent on Moscow’s refusal to accept a ceasefire. The revelation sheds new light on the strategic planning behind Ukraine’s defense posture amid the ongoing war with Russia.
Zelenskyy described the proposal as part of his broader “victory plan” aimed at safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty. Presented initially to the Biden administration and also shared with Trump during his campaign, the plan outlined Ukraine’s need for advanced weaponry, including long-range missiles and drones, to counter continued Russian aggression.
Speaking alongside Finnish President Alexander Stubb in Kyiv, Zelenskyy emphasized the urgency of securing such capabilities. “If Russia continues to reject peace, we must be prepared to defend our sovereignty with all necessary means,” he said, highlighting that Ukraine’s defense strategy had always been proactive and adaptable to evolving threats.
The disclosure comes amid intense global debate over the scope and timing of U.S. military aid to Ukraine. While the Biden administration has committed billions in defense assistance, Zelenskyy’s revelation underscores that Ukrainian leadership has been exploring all potential avenues for support, including outreach to political figures outside the incumbent administration.
This development also illustrates the complex interplay between diplomacy and military strategy. By sharing his “victory plan” with both Trump and Biden, Zelenskyy signaled a pragmatic approach: securing bipartisan support and leveraging every opportunity to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities in the face of persistent Russian offensives.
Observers suggest that the disclosure could have significant ramifications for U.S.-Ukraine relations and broader international diplomacy. It reveals the high stakes and strategic calculations that shape Ukraine’s appeals for military assistance, and the challenges faced by global leaders in balancing support with geopolitical considerations.
Moreover, Zelenskyy’s comments offer insight into the contingency planning undertaken by Kyiv, reflecting the president’s focus on deterrence and preparedness. Advanced long-range weapons, he indicated, would provide Ukraine with the capability to respond decisively should Moscow continue to ignore ceasefire initiatives.
As discussions over military aid continue, this revelation is likely to influence future negotiations and strategic planning in Washington and Kyiv. Analysts note that it also underscores the broader tension in international policymaking: how best to support Ukraine without escalating the conflict into a wider confrontation.
Zelenskyy’s statements serve as a reminder that Ukraine’s leadership remains committed to defending its territory while navigating the complex diplomacy surrounding military assistance, regional security, and long-term stability in Eastern Europe.