Zelenskyy urges US to lift missile restrictions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed optimism that the war with Russia is nearing its conclusion, urging international allies to continue bolstering Ukraine's military efforts.

In an interview with Good Morning America co-anchor Robin Roberts, Zelenskyy stated, “The path to victory lies in strengthening Ukraine. That’s why we ask our friends and allies to support us. It’s crucial.” The interview is set to air Tuesday at 7 a.m. ET.

Zelenskyy, who is in New York for the United Nations General Assembly, said, "I think we are closer to peace than we realize. We are closer to the end of the war. But we must remain very strong."

His visit to the U.S. comes as he plans to present his "Victory Plan" to President Joe Biden and key American political leaders. Zelenskyy has consistently urged the U.S. and U.K. to lift restrictions on the long-range missiles supplied to Ukraine, which Kyiv wants to use to target areas deep within Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has cautioned that using Western-supplied weapons against Russian territory would be seen as a major escalation and a direct challenge to NATO.

Zelenskyy’s plea for more aid comes amid intensified fighting in eastern Ukraine, with Ukrainian forces having pushed into Russia’s Kursk region. Ukraine has claimed to have seized hundreds of square miles and multiple villages in its recent offensive there.

"Putin is afraid," Zelenskyy told Roberts. "His people see that he can’t defend all his territory."

Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine must maintain a "strong position" to compel Putin to end the war. He was accompanied by his wife, First Lady Olena Zelenska, for the interview.

Later this week, Zelenskyy is expected to travel to Washington to meet with President Biden, as well as Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.

[Information sourced from ABC]