Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has voiced concerns regarding a proposed White House peace plan aimed at resolving the conflict with Russia, indicating a potential risk to US support for Kyiv. Speaking on Friday, President Zelensky stated that Ukraine might face a difficult decision between maintaining its autonomy and retaining a crucial international partner.
Details of the Proposed Peace Plan
The US peace proposal, which has been widely reported, includes provisions that Ukraine has previously stated it would not accept. These provisions reportedly involve:
- Ceding eastern territories currently under Ukrainian control.
- Significantly reducing the size of its military.
- Committing not to join NATO.
These elements of the plan have been interpreted by some as favoring Russia's objectives. Russian President Vladimir Putin previously indicated that the plan could serve as a "basis" for a peace settlement.
Reactions from Key Leaders
During a security cabinet meeting on Friday, President Putin confirmed Russia had received the plan, noting it had not been discussed in detail with the Kremlin. He stated Russia's willingness to "show flexibility" while also affirming its readiness to continue military operations.
US President Donald Trump commented on the situation later the same day, suggesting that President Zelensky would ultimately "have to like" the plan to avoid prolonged conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Ukraine is currently dependent on advanced weaponry and intelligence provided by the United States to counter Russian military actions, following the full-scale invasion in 2022.
Zelensky's Address and Diplomatic Engagements
In a public address, President Zelensky cautioned that Ukraine would likely experience substantial external pressure designed to undermine its unity and strength. He urged Ukrainian citizens to maintain national cohesion, emphasizing the paramount importance of national interests. Zelensky also affirmed that Ukraine would engage "calmly" with the United States and other partners, proposing alternative solutions to the current peace plan.
President Zelensky reported receiving assurances of continued support during phone calls with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Following these discussions, Prime Minister Starmer underscored the fundamental principle that Ukraine must determine its own future and sovereignty. Separately, Zelensky also held a nearly hour-long conversation with US Vice-President JD Vance and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, acknowledging President Trump's ongoing efforts to conclude the conflict.
US Position and Timelines
In Washington, President Trump reiterated a warning that Ukraine could lose additional territory to Russia in the near future. He proposed a deadline of November 27th (Thanksgiving in the US) for Ukraine to agree to the peace deal, while also indicating that deadlines could be extended if progress was being made. Speaking from the White House, President Trump expressed confidence in finding a path to peace, stating that President Zelensky "is going to have to approve it." Reports indicate that the US has been urging Kyiv to accept the plan, with senior Pentagon officials visiting the Ukrainian capital earlier in the week.