Ukraine Seeks Sustained Support as Zelensky Addresses UN, Meets Trump Amid Waning Sanctions Hopes

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to address the UN and meet with U.S. President Donald Trump to seek increased support amid ongoing challenges in the Russia-Ukraine war. Kyiv's hopes for tougher U.S. sanctions on Russia have diminished, and a new pragmatic approach sees Ukraine preparing for a phase of the conflict with greater self-reliance, including using long-range drones to target Russian ports and refineries. Despite resumed U.S. intelligence sharing and weapons supplies, lobbying efforts have not persuaded Trump to impose sanctions stringent enough to pressure President Vladimir Putin into negotiations. Public sentiment in Ukraine reflects skepticism about a near-term end to hostilities, with only 18% believing the war will conclude this year. Ukraine is also promoting a summit focused on the Russian-occupied Crimean peninsula to counter any peace deal that might legitimize Russia's control over the region. While U.S. support remains vital, concerns persist regarding the depth of military reserves and potential reductions in allied assistance from Europe.