Former President Donald Trump revealed on Thursday that he will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in New York City.

The Trump Tower meeting is set for Friday morning at approximately 9:45 a.m., according to an announcement made by the former president during a Thursday press conference, as the Post Millennial reports.

The meeting comes as the United States continues to support Ukraine with military aid amid its ongoing war with Russia.

Trump stated that Zelensky requested the meeting, which will focus on the situation in Ukraine. The current GOP presidential nominee has previously vowed to end the conflict between Ukraine and Russia within 24 hours if elected in November.

Trump's Comments on the War in Ukraine

During his press conference, Trump expressed his concerns over the war in Ukraine, mentioning the devastation caused by the ongoing conflict. He referred to the "so many deaths" and "so much destruction" that have occurred, calling the situation "a horrible thing."

Trump's position on the war has been distinct from the Biden administration, with the former president promising to negotiate with the leaders involved and bring an end to the war quickly if he returns to the White House.

U.S. Support for Ukraine Increases

As Trump prepares to meet with Zelensky, the Biden administration has made significant moves to bolster U.S. support for Ukraine. On Thursday morning, President Joe Biden announced an additional $8 billion in weapons aid to Ukraine. This new military package includes long-range missiles, air defense systems, and other essential equipment.

Vice President Kamala Harris, alongside President Zelensky, addressed the public Thursday afternoon, reinforcing U.S. support for Ukraine. Harris emphasized that the United States' assistance is not just a charitable act, but a strategic investment in global stability. “Ukraine’s fight matters to the people of America,” Harris said, underscoring the importance of continued military aid.

More U.S. Aid and Training for Ukraine

The U.S. Department of Defense also made significant announcements on Thursday. The Pentagon disclosed that it would send $2.4 billion in security assistance to Ukraine as part of the ongoing Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. This initiative aims to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities, with plans to provide additional air defense systems, Unmanned Aerial Systems, and air-to-ground munitions.

As part of this effort, the United States will also be sending a Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW), a long-range munition designed to strengthen Ukraine’s defense. The U.S. government has committed to supplying more Patriot air defense batteries and missiles to Ukraine as well.

Patriot Missiles and F-16 Pilot Training

President Biden also took further steps to divert U.S. air defense exports to Ukraine. This includes hundreds of additional Patriot and AMRAAM missiles, which will aid Ukraine in defending its cities from missile strikes. Biden emphasized the importance of providing the necessary defense systems to help Ukraine protect its people during this crucial time in the conflict.

In addition to supplying military equipment, the Biden administration is expanding its support for training Ukrainian F-16 pilots. Biden directed the Department of Defense to train an additional 18 Ukrainian pilots next year to enhance Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.

Zelensky's U.S. Visit and Meeting with Harris

Ukrainian President Zelensky has spent much of the week meeting with key U.S. leaders. His visit included a tour of a munitions factory in Scranton, Pennsylvania, where he observed firsthand how U.S. weapons are being manufactured to support Ukraine’s war effort. On Thursday afternoon, Zelensky stood side by side with Vice President Harris during a joint address, where both leaders reiterated the strong partnership between the U.S. and Ukraine.

The Biden-Harris administration’s decision to provide long-range missiles and air defense systems marks a significant escalation in the military support that Ukraine has received from the United States since the conflict began.

Trump's Plans to End the War if Elected

As the war in Ukraine drags on, Trump has repeatedly stated his intention to bring a swift end to the conflict if he is elected in November. Trump believes he can negotiate peace within 24 hours by engaging directly with the leaders of Ukraine and Russia. While specific details about Trump’s strategy remain vague, he has suggested that his unique negotiation skills would allow him to broker a deal that others have failed to achieve.

Trump’s Friday morning meeting with Zelensky is expected to touch on various aspects of the war, and many will be watching closely to see what emerges from the discussion.

Conclusion: A Critical Meeting Amid Ongoing Aid

The Friday meeting between Trump and Zelensky comes at a time of significant U.S. military aid to Ukraine, including long-range missiles and defense systems.

Trump’s commitment to ending the war contrasts with the Biden administration’s continued support for Ukraine through billions of dollars in military assistance.

With both leaders approaching the conflict from different perspectives, this meeting could offer insight into how future U.S. policy toward Ukraine might evolve, depending on the outcome of the 2024 presidential election.