Ukrainian President Zelenskyy posted today: "I have arrived in New York together with the First Lady and our diplomatic team to attend the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

We plan to hold approximately 20 meetings, including with the U.S. president, leaders of European countries, members of the U.S. Congress, heads of international organizations, top American corporations, and representatives of think tanks. A new drone cooperation agreement is also ready for signature. Ukraine’s primary objective remains advancing a just and lasting peace, ensuring the safety of its people. We have prepared concrete proposals on security and de-escalation measures that could help bring the war to an end. We are working to strengthen air defense capabilities and secure sustained financial support. As last year, we will host the International Crimean Platform Summit in New York, with high-level delegations from numerous countries attending. We express gratitude to all partners for their participation and for upholding Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty."

The First Lady, Yelena Zelenska, will deliver a speech at Columbia University addressing students and faculty, and will present the outcomes of the First Lady and Spouse Summit at the United Nations. She has also scheduled a series of bilateral meetings with American business leaders and philanthropists to mobilize support for the Yelena Zelenska Foundation’s initiatives, as well as meetings with the wife of the UK prime minister and the president of the World Bank.

Thank you to everyone standing with Ukraine!"

Commentary: Zelenskyy’s extensive schedule at the UN reflects a strategic effort to consolidate international backing. The war has imposed immense costs, and Ukraine continues to rely heavily on foreign aid—particularly funding and military equipment such as drones—to sustain both air defenses and frontline operations. With uncertainty surrounding U.S. policy toward Ukraine, Zelenskyy must proactively engage American political, corporate, and intellectual circles to maintain external support. Hosting the Crimean Platform Summit and unveiling so-called peace proposals serve to reinforce favorable global narratives and broaden acceptance of Ukraine’s position.

Yet this diplomatic campaign primarily aims to secure resources and shape public opinion rather than compel significant concessions from Russia. Fundamental disagreements persist between Kyiv and Moscow over territory, security guarantees, and broader geopolitical interests. Even with newly acquired military assets, it is unlikely that diplomatic efforts alone can achieve a peace settlement meeting Ukraine’s conditions. The current military stalemate is expected to endure in the short term.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1877003173824650/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author.