Ukraine Submits Revised Peace Plan to US, Germany Confirms
Diplomatic Engagement on Ukraine Peace
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that a revised draft peace plan from Ukraine has been presented to US President Donald Trump. This proposal reportedly includes suggestions regarding potential territorial concessions by Kyiv. Chancellor Merz emphasized that the question of territorial adjustments is primarily a decision for the Ukrainian President and the Ukrainian people, a position he stated was communicated to President Trump. European leaders have been collaborating with Ukraine to develop this new version of a peace plan.
US Position and European Perspectives
President Trump has acknowledged the complexities involved in issues related to the sovereignty of Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories. European allies of Kyiv have conveyed concerns that the US President might advocate for a solution perceived as favoring Russia, referencing prior interactions between the US negotiating team and Moscow. Chancellor Merz remarked, "It would be a mistake to force the Ukrainian president into a peace that his people will not accept after four years of suffering and death."
During a recent phone call, Merz, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, conveyed to Trump the importance of considering European interests. Trump commented that Ukraine was discussed "in pretty strong words" and indicated uncertainty about attending an upcoming meeting in Europe, stating, "We don't want to be wasting time."
Ukraine's Stance on Territorial Integrity
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed willingness to engage in direct talks with Trump to address contentious elements of a potential agreement. Trump has suggested that all issues must be resolved before such a meeting can take place. The issue of territory remains a significant point of disagreement.
Russia demands Ukraine's full withdrawal from parts of the eastern Luhansk and Donetsk regions it currently occupies. Kyiv rejects this demand, citing obligations under Ukrainian law, its constitution, and international law, as well as concerns that such a withdrawal could facilitate future Russian incursions. President Zelensky previously stated, "We have no legal right to [cede territory], under Ukrainian law, our constitution and international law. And we don't have any moral right either." Zelensky is scheduled to co-chair further discussions today with Merz, Macron, and Starmer.
Moscow's Public Statements
Amidst intensive diplomatic activity among US, European, and Ukrainian officials, Moscow has maintained a comparatively reserved public posture. Public statements from Russia have sought to portray alignment between Moscow and Washington regarding the desired terms of a peace agreement.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov commended President Trump's efforts to mediate a deal. Lavrov also indicated that a recent meeting between President Vladimir Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff in the Kremlin had "eliminated" misunderstandings that had emerged following the previous summer's Trump-Putin summit in Alaska. During that earlier summit, Lavrov stated, Russia and the US had agreed that Ukraine should adopt a non-aligned, neutral, and nuclear-free status.