- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with CIA Director William Burns in Ukraine, a rare public disclosure of their meeting amid Russia’s invasion.
- The US has been Ukraine’s primary financial and military backer since Moscow’s invasion, sharing military intelligence to support Ukraine’s defense.
- Zelensky expressed gratitude for Burns’ help, noting that their meetings have been undisclosed, including their last meeting which was confirmed in mid-2023.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently met with CIA Director William Burns in Ukraine, marking a rare public disclosure of their meeting amidst Russia’s ongoing invasion. The US has been a crucial supporter of Ukraine, providing significant financial and military aid since Moscow’s invasion nearly three years ago. Additionally, Washington has shared military intelligence with Ukraine to bolster its defense.
Zelensky acknowledged that he and Burns have met multiple times throughout the war, but their meetings have been kept under wraps. The Ukrainian President expressed his gratitude for Burns’ assistance, highlighting the significance of their collaboration.
Notably, Burns is set to leave his post as CIA Director, as US President-elect Donald Trump prepares to appoint his own candidate. The meeting between Zelensky and Burns comes at a critical juncture, just one month before Trump assumes power. Trump has pledged to end the war swiftly, sparking concerns that Kyiv may be pressured to accept peace terms favorable to Moscow.
