Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy strategically seeks Southeastern European support at the Dubrovnik summit amidst escalating Ukraine-Russia conflict dynamics. Zelenskyy plans to meet with leaders from Britain, France, Italy, and Germany for guaranteed military support. During the summit, he signed an agreement with Croatia on the cooperation of humanitarian aid. Zelenskyy also points out that he hopes to end the conflict with Russia by next year.
Zelenskyy Pushes for Military and Geopolitical Support
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy aims to garner the support of Southeastern European nations for Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia. At the summit in Dubrovnik, Zelenskyy seeks to consolidate alliances and advocate for greater NATO involvement, emphasizing Ukraine’s strategic geographical and military strengthening before any dialogue with Russia. The meeting postponed, due to President Biden addressing Hurricane Milton, was initially set at the U.S. Ramstein Air Base with Western leaders.
Zelenskyy plans discussions with leaders from Britain, France, Italy, and Germany to articulate this plan. Despite undisclosed specificities, the plan necessitates swift decision-making by allies and underscores the need for security guarantees and weapon provisions. While Ukrainian authorities await approval to deploy long-range weapons against Russian targets, some Balkan states have provided short-range weaponry.
Diplomatic Challenges and Opposition
Opposition exists from Croatia’s President who diverges from the prevalent Western military strategies, highlighting the nuanced diplomatic landscape. An agreement was signed between Ukraine and Croatia focusing on cooperation in humanitarian aid, demining, and prosecution of war crimes. Such collaborations emphasize the humanitarian aspect alongside military strategies.
Throughout the summit, participated by leaders from various Southeastern European countries, a joint declaration highlighted the urgency of a peaceful and prosperous Ukraine essential for Europe. Notably, Serbia remains the sole European nation refraining from imposing sanctions on Russia, though it acknowledges Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
I have arrived in Croatia to meet with Prime Minister @AndrejPlenkovic and representatives of other countries in the region, and to participate in the third Ukraine–South East Europe Summit.
With Prime Minister Plenković, we will discuss further defense cooperation,… pic.twitter.com/OXMWpl38md
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) October 9, 2024
Vision for Regional Peace and Future Strategies
Summit participants unanimously condemned Russia’s aggressive stance, supporting Ukraine’s aspiration for NATO membership and post-war reconstruction. Asserting Ukraine’s sovereignty, Zelenskyy aims to conclude the conflict by 2025, positioning NATO membership as vital for global peace. The summit reflects Zelenskyy’s commitment to establish a unified regional front against Russian hostilities, fostering cooperation and peace.
As Zelenskyy navigates complex negotiations, the emphasis remains on tangible outcomes, incorporating quick decision-making and international solidarity in Ukraine’s strategic plans.
🇺🇦🇭🇷 Leaders of Ukraine and Croatia have signed a historic security agreement. Today, President Zelensky works at the 3rd "Ukraine-Southeast Europe" Summit in Croatia, consolidating global support. Together, we stand strong for victory and European integration! https://t.co/An10kELIfr
— MFA of Ukraine 🇺🇦 (@MFA_Ukraine) October 9, 2024
