Mon Sep 23 23:00:09 UTC 2024: ## Zelensky Slams Trump’s Running Mate, Vance, as “Too Radical” Ahead of US Visit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has publicly criticized GOP vice presidential hopeful JD Vance, calling him “too radical” and rejecting his proposed blueprint for ending the war in Ukraine. Zelensky, in an interview with The New Yorker, stated that Vance’s plan essentially calls for Ukraine to “give up our territories,” which he deems unacceptable.

Vance, who has been skeptical of US military aid to Ukraine, has previously proposed a demilitarized zone between Ukraine and Russia, with Ukraine forgoing membership in NATO and other alliances. Zelensky condemned this plan, arguing that it would “implicitly” allow Russia to annex Ukrainian territory and could lead to further global conflict.

Zelensky, while expressing his positive interactions with former President Donald Trump, reiterated his disapproval of Vance’s stance. He is set to meet with President Biden this week, where he will present a “victory plan” aimed at achieving a complete Russian withdrawal from Ukrainian territory, including the Donbas region and Crimea.

Zelensky’s visit to the US coincides with his address to the United Nations General Assembly and a planned meeting with Trump, although the details of that meeting are unclear. The Ukrainian president stressed the importance of international support for Ukraine’s “victory” and hinted at a request for further military assistance, including long-range weapons.

The Ukrainian president’s visit to the US comes as Ukraine continues its counteroffensive against Russian forces. Zelensky’s “victory plan” aims to secure a swift victory for Ukraine and force Russia to the negotiating table, while also emphasizing that he intends to “avoid influencing the choices of the American people.”

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