Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Kyiv risks losing U.S. support over a White House plan on how to end the war with Russia. Addressing the nation on Friday, Zelensky stated Ukraine 'might face a very difficult choice: either losing dignity, or risk losing a key partner', emphasizing that 'today is one of the most difficult moments in our history'. The leaked U.S. peace plan includes contentious proposals that Kyiv had previously rejected: ceding eastern territories, significantly reducing its army size, and pledging not to join NATO. These provisions are perceived as favoring Russia, whose President Vladimir Putin indicated the plan could serve as a 'basis' for a peace settlement. At a meeting with his security cabinet, Putin noted that while Russia would consider the plan, they were also prepared to continue fighting.
During a press conference, U.S. President Donald Trump underscored that Zelensky would need to accept the plan, warning that otherwise, fighting between Ukraine and Russia would persist. Ukraine's reliance on U.S. advanced weaponry and intelligence is crucial amidst the ongoing conflict that started with Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022.
As pressure mounts, Zelensky said Ukraine will face 'a lot of pressure... to weaken us, to make divide us', urging unity among Ukrainians. He reaffirmed Ukraine's commitment to negotiate alternatives to the proposed peace plan with partners. Reassured of continued support from leaders of the UK, France, and Germany, Zelensky remains focused on cooperative efforts to maintain Ukraine's sovereignty despite U.S. deadlines.
Meanwhile, the U.S. plan suggests a troop withdrawal from certain eastern regions and stipulates significant military reductions. In reaction, Ukrainians have expressed skepticism about the feasibility of such a plan, indicating a strong desire to uphold national dignity over capitulation. President Putin has reiterated his goals and the necessity for military operations to continue as part of Russia's strategy in Ukraine, emphasizing the Kremlin's determination despite setbacks on the battlefield.}
During a press conference, U.S. President Donald Trump underscored that Zelensky would need to accept the plan, warning that otherwise, fighting between Ukraine and Russia would persist. Ukraine's reliance on U.S. advanced weaponry and intelligence is crucial amidst the ongoing conflict that started with Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022.
As pressure mounts, Zelensky said Ukraine will face 'a lot of pressure... to weaken us, to make divide us', urging unity among Ukrainians. He reaffirmed Ukraine's commitment to negotiate alternatives to the proposed peace plan with partners. Reassured of continued support from leaders of the UK, France, and Germany, Zelensky remains focused on cooperative efforts to maintain Ukraine's sovereignty despite U.S. deadlines.
Meanwhile, the U.S. plan suggests a troop withdrawal from certain eastern regions and stipulates significant military reductions. In reaction, Ukrainians have expressed skepticism about the feasibility of such a plan, indicating a strong desire to uphold national dignity over capitulation. President Putin has reiterated his goals and the necessity for military operations to continue as part of Russia's strategy in Ukraine, emphasizing the Kremlin's determination despite setbacks on the battlefield.}
