Trump is reversing direction and convening with Zelensky.
In the U.S., Zelensky is currently pushing for continued backing of his nation as it fights against Russia. Trump has now confirmed a meeting with the Ukrainian leader.
Republican presidential hopeful Trump has revealed that he'll meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the U.S., on Friday, no less. Speaking to the press in New York on Thursday, Trump stated, "I'll meet him tomorrow at 9:45 AM at Trump Tower."
Previously, Zelensky had been welcomed by U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in Washington. The meeting came after Zelensky advocated for additional help for his country in its conflict against Russia, at the UN General Debate in New York. Initially, it seemed that the session with Trump would be cancelled, following Trump's claims that Zelensky had rejected a "deal" with Russia to end the war.
Trump and the present U.S. administration have conflicting stances on Ukraine policy: while the Republican fiercely blasts U.S. billion-dollar aid to Ukraine and pushes for a swift agreement with Russia, the Biden administration backs substantial support for the nation to protect itself against Russia's invasion "as long as necessary."
Biden announced more aid to Ukraine on Thursday, amounting to $8 billion (7.16 billion euros), and invited a meeting of the Ukraine Contact Group, set for October 12, during the last day of his visit to Germany. Harris accused Trump, post his meeting with Zelensky, of proposing "surrender recommendations" for the country, instead of peace proposals, hence aligning with Russian President Vladimir Putin's position.
In contrast to his predecessor, Joe Biden previously welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington. Despite Trump's claims of a cancelled meeting and alleged "deal" with Russia, Biden continues to advocate for substantial support for Ukraine, with a recent announcement of $8 billion in aid.
