In a development signaling renewed focus on the Ukraine conflict within US political circles, both Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are expected to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zelensky’s visit to the United States coincides with his attendance at the UN General Assembly, which convenes in New York next week. As global attention turns to the conflict in Ukraine, the meetings could mark a critical moment in shaping US policy and the broader international response.

Donald Trump, the former president and current Republican frontrunner for the 2024 election, confirmed that a meeting with Zelensky was likely, though his stance on the Ukraine conflict remains somewhat ambiguous. Speaking to reporters on September 18, Trump indicated he would “probably” meet Zelensky during the latter’s US visit, though he has often been cautious in articulating a definitive position on the war.

Throughout his campaign, Trump has sought to distinguish himself from the current administration’s approach by proposing what he describes as a swift resolution to the conflict. The former president has repeatedly claimed he could broker peace within 24 hours if elected, suggesting that a key aspect of his plan could involve concessions such as blocking Ukraine from joining NATO and creating a demilitarized zone along the frontline.

However, Trump has been criticized for not offering a clear answer on whether he wants Ukraine to win the war, notably avoiding direct responses in recent debates. His rhetoric suggests a desire for a negotiated settlement that might involve compromises, but the specifics of his proposals have remained largely vague.

In contrast, Kamala Harris, the Democratic vice president and Trump’s likely opponent in 2024, has been a staunch advocate for continued U.S. support of Ukraine. Harris is also expected to meet with Zelensky during his time in Washington, as reported by CNN and Bloomberg. According to National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, Harris is committed to maintaining strong ties with Ukraine, and any potential meeting would reinforce the Biden administration’s position on backing Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.

Harris last met Zelensky in June, during a peace summit held in Lucerne, Switzerland, where she reiterated U.S. commitment to providing military and economic assistance to Ukraine. Her consistent support has positioned her as a key figure in the administration’s foreign policy, particularly in matters related to the ongoing war. Harris’s stance sharply contrasts with Trump’s more ambiguous approach, reflecting the wider divide between Democrats and Republicans on Ukraine policy.

Zelensky’s visit to the US centers on his scheduled address to the UN Security Council on September 24. His speech is expected to focus on the current situation in Ukraine and call for continued international support. The session coincides with the annual gathering of world leaders for the UN General Assembly, providing a platform for Zelensky to strengthen alliances and rally further backing for Ukraine’s defense against Russia.

Zelensky’s diplomatic efforts come at a crucial time, as Ukraine seeks to solidify international aid and support amid a grueling counteroffensive against Russian forces. His potential meetings with both Trump and Harris will be closely watched for signs of how U.S. policy toward the war may evolve, especially as the 2024 presidential election approaches.

The differing stances of Trump and Harris on Ukraine reflect the broader division within US politics regarding the conflict. Trump’s rhetoric suggests a pragmatic approach aimed at rapidly ending the war, potentially through concessions to Russia. His comments have sparked both domestic and international concern over whether he would maintain the strong support for Ukraine that has defined US policy since the war began.

Zelensky has expressed cautious openness to hearing Trump’s peace proposals, though he has also signaled skepticism. In a recent interview, Zelensky remarked that Trump’s talk of ending the war quickly could be little more than an “election message,” designed to appeal to voters rather than offering a realistic solution. “Sometimes they are not very real,” Zelensky said of Trump’s proposals, hinting at the complexities involved in achieving a lasting peace.

On the other hand, Harris, alongside President Joe Biden, has been unwavering in her support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Biden administration has funneled billions of dollars in military aid to Kyiv, a policy Harris is expected to continue advocating for as she campaigns for the presidency.

As Zelensky prepares for high-stakes meetings with both Trump and Harris, the outcomes could shape not only the future of US-Ukraine relations but also the broader geopolitical landscape. Trump’s potential return to the White House could usher in a significant shift in US foreign policy, with implications for NATO, Ukraine, and US alliances in Europe.

For Harris, any meeting with Zelensky will likely reinforce her commitment to continuing Biden’s policies, providing a clear contrast to Trump’s more transactional approach to diplomacy.

The world will be watching as these discussions unfold, with Zelensky aiming to secure continued American support amid a conflict that shows no signs of abating. Whether Trump’s proposals for peace gain traction, or Harris’s steadfast support of Ukraine prevails, could have lasting implications for the future of the Ukraine conflict and the role of the United States on the global stage.

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