Zelenskyy Claims Trump Supports a Free Ukraine, While Ukrainian Troops Gain Ground in Kursk

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that former U.S. President Donald Trump has signaled his support for a “free Ukraine” and expressed a desire to end the ongoing conflict with Russia. Zelenskyy’s remarks come amidst mixed signals regarding Trump’s foreign policy stance, particularly after Trump’s previous comments about allowing Russia to act freely against NATO members who don’t contribute sufficiently to defense. Trump’s selection of JD Vance, a prominent critic of U.S. aid to Ukraine, as a running mate has further complicated perceptions of his position.
In a recent conversation with Zelenskyy, Trump reportedly assured him of his commitment to supporting Ukraine and working towards ending the war. “I only had messages that he will support Ukraine and do everything possible to stop the war,” Zelenskyy told Indian reporters following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Ukraine. Trump is said to have pledged efforts to ensure Ukraine remains “independent, European, and free.”
The outcome of this situation may become clearer in November, when Trump, running as the Republican candidate, faces Democrat Kamala Harris in the presidential election.
On the battlefield, Ukrainian forces have reported significant progress in their offensive. In his evening address, Zelenskyy announced that Ukrainian troops had advanced up to 3 kilometers into Russia’s Kursk region, gaining control of two settlements. This development is part of Ukraine’s broader military efforts in the region.
In a separate incident, Ukrainian shelling in Russia’s Belgorod region resulted in five deaths and twelve injuries, including a 16-year-old girl in critical condition. Additionally, Russian forces targeted a hotel in Kramatorsk, eastern Ukraine, killing a British citizen employed by Reuters and injuring two others.