Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in New York to attend the UN General Assembly. As the Israeli-Palestinian conflict intensifies, Ukraine seeks to keep its war with Russia in focus, despite the risk of being overshadowed.
This week in New York promises intensive diplomacy: Donald Trump is set to meet with Arab leaders to discuss the Middle East crisis. Several countries, including Canada and Australia, have recently recognized Palestine as an independent state. French President Emmanuel Macron actively promotes this concept, generating political divisions within the West.
For Ukraine, the main risk lies not just in reduced attention to its own conflict, but in the growing discord among Western allies over the Palestinian issue. Experts say this division may undermine coherent support for Ukraine.
Trump's and Macron's positions are central to this process. Trump opposes recognition of Palestinian statehood and supports Israel, making it crucial for Ukraine to avoid friction with him. Macron, meanwhile, leads Europe's pro-Palestinian push and advances diplomatic initiatives at odds with US views, especially in relations with China.
The Assembly also discusses Russia's increasing hybrid aggression against NATO countries, including recent cyberattacks on European airports and airspace provocations. Ukraine plans to highlight these threats and urge stronger international coordination.
France's stance on China and sanctions further complicates Europe's political balancing. Macron argues against a trade war with China and advocates independent European partnerships, reflecting hidden interests of other EU members.
Amid emerging crises and rising international tensions, Ukrainian diplomacy is working to maintain allied support, avoid US conflicts, and draw attention to the Russian threat.
