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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is navigating what he has described as the “most difficult moment” of the war, as the United States under President Donald Trump actively promotes a controversial peace plan that would require major concessions from Kyiv. The proposal's central tenet is to halt the conflict by freezing the current frontlines and initiating dialogue, a suggestion that has elicited a mixed but significant response from the Ukrainian leader.
In a notable statement, President Zelenskyy referred to the U.S. call to stop at the current frontlines as a potential “good compromise.” He did, however, express uncertainty about whether Russian President Vladimir Putin would adhere to such an agreement. This apparent openness to the plan marks a potential shift in Ukraine's stance, which has long insisted on the full restoration of its 1991 borders. The Kremlin, meanwhile, has reportedly backed the American-led initiative.
However, the plan has sparked considerable alarm among some of Ukraine's key European partners. Reports indicate the deal requires Kyiv to make significant sacrifices, including formally ceding occupied territory and downsizing its armed forces. In response, Ukrainian officials have entered into discussions with counterparts in London, Paris, and Brussels to develop alternative ceasefire options that would not involve surrendering land. The goal is to formulate a truce framework that could gain Washington's approval without compromising Ukraine's sovereignty.
The diplomatic push is intensifying ahead of the G20 summit, where world leaders are expected to discuss the path forward. UK Labour leader Keir Starmer stated his intention to strengthen the US-drafted agreement during talks with allies, highlighting the complex and delicate negotiations underway. As Ukraine weighs its options, it faces the immense challenge of balancing pressure from Washington with its long-term security goals and the concerns of its European supporters.
