Ukraine will be receiving a warm welcome from the United States next week, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrives for his first official visit to Washington, D.C.
Zelensky’s visit comes at a crucial moment in international relations and comes during a period of high tensions between Russia and the U.S. The Ukrainian leader’s visit offers a chance to build on ties between the two countries and any progress would help both nations strategically in the wider geopolitics of the region.
At the invitation of President Donald Trump, Zelensky will meet with him in the White House on Sept. 24 and will also take part in various other events in the nation’s capital.
During his visit, the Ukrainian leader is expected to discuss a range of issues, including the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine and Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea. The two leaders are also expected to review the successes and challenges of their respective countries and reinforce the shared belief in democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
President Zelensky has been vocal about his desire to continue the strong relationship between the two nations and to ensure support from the United States as Ukraine seeks to reform and modernize its economy and its government. In his meetings with the American president, he is likely to detail his ambitious plans to transform his country’s energy and banking sectors, as well as tackle corruption and increase democratic freedoms.
At this difficult time, Zelensky’s visit to Washington is a sign of global solidarity and a renewed commitment to open communication between the two nations. With fruitful talks, both countries can re-establish trust and work together on issues of great importance to their own citizens and the international community.