US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are set to meet today on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, with efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war expected to be a key focus.
The meeting comes as Washington pushes for de-escalation between Russia and Ukraine, while fighting and attacks on critical infrastructure continue. Zelensky has said he wants to discuss concrete steps that could bring an end to the war closer.
One of the main issues is expected to be a possible mutual halt to attacks on energy infrastructure. Zelensky has proposed that Ukraine and Russia stop targeting each other’s energy facilities, particularly as Ukraine prepares for the winter season.
Zelensky has said Ukraine’s energy sector, critical infrastructure and food exports should no longer be targeted by Russia, with Kyiv prepared to take corresponding de-escalation steps.
Trump, meanwhile, has urged Ukraine to stop attacks on Russian oil refineries and diesel infrastructure. He has expressed concern that the strikes are contributing to pressure on global fuel supplies and prices.
Ukraine has continued to argue that strikes on Russian energy facilities are part of its efforts to disrupt Moscow’s ability to wage war. At the same time, Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure have continued.
Air defence is also expected to feature prominently in the talks. Kyiv has been seeking additional air-defence systems and interceptor missiles, including US-made Patriot systems, as Russian missile and drone attacks continue. The US State Department recently approved a possible $2.7 billion sale of air-defence systems and related equipment to Ukraine.
The meeting comes after Trump and Zelensky spoke by phone on September 20. Zelensky has described the upcoming meeting as potentially significant for diplomatic efforts to end the war.
The talks will take place amid a renewed diplomatic push by Washington, while Russia and Ukraine remain engaged in daily attacks. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is also expected to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during the UN gathering.
- MaT