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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s situation room, a secure and windowless interior located deep within the Presidential Administration Building in central Kyiv, is where strategic decisions are made regarding Ukraine's ongoing conflict with Russia. Recently, Zelensky, clad in his characteristic military-inspired attire of a black T-shirt, olive-drab pants, and brown boots, was preparing for a significant visit to the United States. This trip includes an address to the United Nations General Assembly and a vital meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House to discuss what Zelensky terms Ukraine's "victory plan."

Although details of the plan are being reserved for the face-to-face with Biden, Zelensky has hinted that it encompasses several facets aimed at ensuring Ukraine's long-term security and bolstering its geopolitical stance. Central to these efforts are accelerating Ukraine's NATO membership and securing Western military aid with fewer restrictions. In the lead-up to this trip, Zelensky has been urging Western allies to permit Ukraine to strike deeper into Russian territory with long-range missiles provided by the U.S. and other supporting nations. Last month’s incursion into the Kursk region of Russia, where Ukrainian forces currently control about 400 square miles, is part of this tactical approach, designed to give Kyiv leverage over the Kremlin and demonstrate Ukraine’s offensive capabilities.

Despite his steadfast and impassioned demeanor, Zelensky recognizes that his personal resolve alone cannot clinch victory. The conflict, now extending into its third year, has seen mixed results. A Ukrainian counter-offensive last year fell short, and Russian forces have since slowly but steadily advanced in the Donbas region, capturing critical areas like Pokrovsk. Zelensky continues to call for increased Western military aid, but acknowledges that this support alone won’t address the systemic issues of mobilizing and training new soldiers or overcoming communication challenges on the front lines.

The urgency behind Zelensky’s visit to the U.S. cannot be overstated. Biden's presidency nears its conclusion, presenting a key window for securing American support. Meanwhile, Republican frontrunner Donald Trump has been noncommittal about his stance on Ukraine, emphasizing only a desire to "stop the war." This political backdrop in the U.S. adds another layer of complexity to Zelensky's mission.

As he prepares to meet Biden, Harris, and Trump, Zelensky remains convinced that resolving the war requires determination and unity, both on the battlefield and in diplomatic corridors. The President's plan emphasizes a strong and resilient Ukraine, which he believes will eventually force Russia to the negotiating table on fair and equal terms. However, this pivot to diplomacy comes with the caveat that, if not adequately supported by international partners, Ukraine might be doomed to an exhaustingly prolonged conflict.

In his forthcoming discussions with U.S. leaders, Zelensky aims to make a compelling case not just for Ukraine's sake, but for the security and strategic interests of the West as a whole. He points out that Ukraine has played a crucial role in keeping the war contained and preventing broader repercussions for Europe and beyond.

The stakes are high. Should Biden or other U.S. leaders hesitate to increase support, Ukraine faces the grim prospect of a protracted and devastating struggle. Yet, Zelensky remains focused on his message that Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression is not just a national battle, but a crucial front in defending democratic values worldwide.