Does Volodymyr Zelensky still have that magic touch? The plucky leader who emerged on the world stage as the face of Ukraine’s David-versus-Goliath struggle against Russia is back in Washington to lobby for support after a showdown with the invader at the UN in New York. But this time, the headwinds seem to be getting stronger. As the US approaches an election year, isolationists in the Republican party this week blocked a major defence spending bill.
Enter neighbouring Poland, which votes next month in a general election. Warsaw is one of Ukraine’s biggest backers… to a point. The Polish prime minister announced a halt to weapons exports amid a pre-election row over cheap Ukrainian grain exports. Is this simply political grandstanding, or proof that NATO and Europe's unwavering support is no longer so unwavering? After a spring counteroffensive that's turned to summer and now fall, time certainly seems to be on Vladimir Putin's side as Ukraine's adversary digs in for the long haul. As the carpet bombing of cities continues, as the casualties mount, what is Zelensky's plan?
Produced by Juliette Laurain, Imen Mellaz and Lauren Bain.
