In a crucial moment of the 19-month war following Russia’s illegal invasion, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy pays a visit to the White House this week. The international community’s perception of a tipping point in the global contest between western democracies and aggressive authoritarian powers, namely China and Russia, has been heightened by inadequate Nato, Brics, and G20 summits.
However, Zelenskiy’s meeting with President Joe Biden will not be able to hide the disappointment in Ukrainian progress on the battlefield this summer. Despite high expectations, Kyiv’s counter-offensive has been slow and costly in terms of lives lost. While some territory has been regained through the efforts of Ukrainian troops, there has been no definitive breakthrough, and a winter stalemate looms.
Biden may inform Zelenskiy that although he remains committed to helping Ukraine free its territory from Russian occupation, sustaining current levels of US military aid will be challenging for his administration. Republicans in Congress, critical of Biden’s policy and considering next year’s elections, have seized on a CNN poll showing that 55% of Americans oppose additional funding for Ukraine on top of the $43 billion already provided in US security assistance.
The same poll indicated that 51% of Americans believe the US has done enough, while 48% think more should be done. Public opinion on this, like many other issues, is divided. However, the trend is not favorable for Ukraine. During the Republican presidential TV debate, candidates echoing Donald Trump questioned continued US support. Biden is proposing a new $24 billion military aid package that needs approval for Ukraine to maintain momentum.
Apart from battlefield setbacks, Kyiv has faced disappointments on the political and diplomatic fronts. Zelenskiy’s request for a firm Nato membership timetable was unwisely denied at the July summit. The recent G20 summit, under pressure from Moscow, failed to condemn Russian aggression or mention the war. Ukrainian concerns about potential backsliding extend to Britain and Europe, where the supply of advanced weapons seems to be slowing.
Moreover, Vladimir Putin’s actions further exacerbate the situation. Putin, an indicted war criminal, courted China and the “global south” at the Brics summit and hosted North Korea’s Kim Jong-un for talks, highlighting illegal arms deals. The conflict continues to spread globally, disproving the belief that it could be contained or isolated.
Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State, describes the current situation as a “hinge moment in history,” signifying the end of the post-cold war order and the rise of competition with authoritarian powers. Blinken emphasizes the threats to core principles such as sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence, with Ukraine at the forefront of this global struggle.
The challenge is immense, but giving in to aggression is not an option. Ukraine requires more weapons, ammunition, drones, American F-16s, and longer-range missiles to defend its territory. It also needs unwavering political, humanitarian, and moral support. Unity and solidarity are crucial in ensuring Ukraine’s victory.
The war is far from over, but it could end if Putin withdraws his troops. Abandoning Ukraine now would lead to a loss of security, stability, progress, and international cooperation. Ukraine’s fight is everyone’s fight, and efforts must be redoubled to ensure its success.
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