Fearing oblivion in the Middle East, Volodymyr Zelensky tries to remobilize his allies

Worried that the conflict in the Middle East will eclipse the war in Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky fears above all a form of weariness among his allies. Let Gaza make us forget Odessa…

Hence this sentence, launched by the Ukrainian head of state on Saturday November 4, “the conflict in the Middle East distracts attention” of the war in Ukraine. Volodymyr Zelensky did not say it in front of just anyone. He was alongside Ursula Von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, traveling to kyiv. Europe remains one of Ukraine’s main political and financial supporters. The message is clear as the Russian invasion enters its 21st month.

Diplomatic counter-offensive

Although kyiv’s military counter-offensive, launched before the summer, did not achieve the expected results, he reaffirmed his refusal to negotiate with Russia. This weekend, the Ukrainian president denied that the conflict is now in a “dead end”. However, this word was used by a very senior Ukrainian military official. The Commander-in-Chief of the Army, Valery Zaluzhny, believes that there is “unlikely” that his troops realize “a breakthrough” against the Russians. Somewhat defeatist remarks, which did not please President Zelensky, because they could demobilize Ukraine’s allies.

Especially since American support is weakened. In Washington, parliamentarians – particularly Republicans – are becoming more reluctant every day to grant new aid to kyiv. Volodymyr Zelensky also called on the United States on Sunday to provide additional resources. He invited Donald Trump to go to Ukraine to explain the situation to him.

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The Ukrainian president is also expected to travel to Israel this week. After the military counter-offensive, here is the diplomatic counter-offensive.