Ukraine faces a challenging winter ahead: details on Biden's visit to Europe.

On October 18, U.S. President Joe Biden will meet with the leaders of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom in Berlin to discuss the situation in Ukraine. This comes after Volodymyr Zelensky presented measures to the EU and NATO leadership that he believes will help bring an end to the 31-month Russian invasion. Biden aims to solidify long-term assistance as Ukrainian air defense prepares for one of the toughest winters in recent years.

According to the European branch of "Radio Free Europe," Biden's visit coincides with an increase in Russian airstrikes on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. On October 18, a Ukrainian official reported "one of the largest" drone attacks.

Biden condemned Russian ruler Putin for the "brutal assault on Ukraine" and stated that "NATO remains strong and more united than ever." He added:

"We are facing a very difficult winter. We cannot give up," he said on Friday during his visit to Germany, emphasizing that NATO allies must "provide support until Ukraine achieves a just and sustainable peace."

Biden's Visit Agenda in Germany

Biden arrived in Germany late on the evening of October 17. His visit was initially scheduled earlier and was supposed to include participation in the Ramstein group meeting but was postponed due to Hurricane Milton.

During his visit, Biden will meet with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who will present him with the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit - Germany's highest honor. Biden will also hold talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan noted that the president intends to ensure long-term support for Ukraine.

Zelensky's Victory Plan and Western Response

Recall that on October 17, Zelensky presented a victory plan and called on allies to invite Ukraine to NATO, although the alliance has yet to set a timeline for membership, and Russian President Vladimir Putin cites this as one of the reasons for the invasion. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed efforts to bring Ukraine closer but refrained from making a clear invitation. He stated that NATO will provide Ukraine with everything necessary for victory.

Despite assurances of support, Ukraine faces challenges in rallying allies due to the gradual successes of Russian troops in the eastern part of the country. The upcoming elections in the U.S. also raise concerns about the policy regarding the end of the war, especially the positions of candidates - Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. The latter has criticized Zelensky and accused him of facilitating the onset of the conflict.

Meanwhile, on October 18, Russia carried out one of the largest drone attacks on Ukraine. According to the head of the Kyiv military administration, Serhiy Popko, Ukrainian air defense shot down all drones threatening the capital.

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