Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky expressed readiness to engage with the United States on “their vision” for ending the war with Russia, following the emergence of a widely leaked US-Russia draft plan.
Zelensky stressed that Ukraine seeks a “real and worthy peace” that respects the country’s sovereignty and people.
Key provisions of the draft plan
The leaked plan reportedly proposes:
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Kyiv ceding parts of the Donetsk region it still controls.
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Limiting the size of Ukraine’s military to 600,000 personnel.
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A pledge not to join NATO, while receiving “reliable security guarantees” (details unspecified).
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Reintegration of Russia into the global economy, including lifting sanctions and inviting Moscow back into the G7.
Ukrainian officials have given a carefully diplomatic response, avoiding outright rejection while emphasizing that any peace must be durable and just.
US and Ukraine coordination
Zelensky met with senior US military officials, including Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, Gen. Randy George, and Gen. Chris Donahue, who presented the US proposals. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that Ukraine was consulted and engaged in the plan’s development.
An unnamed senior US official stated that the draft was drawn up after consultations with Ukrainian officials, with modifications made before presenting it to Zelensky.
European Concerns
While Ukraine and the US are engaged in discussions, European allies were largely excluded from drafting the plan. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas noted that for any plan to succeed, Europeans and Ukrainians must be involved. Countries like the UK and France are now shouldering a larger share of military and financial aid for Ukraine.
Ongoing conflict and attacks
Despite diplomatic efforts, Russian attacks continue:
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Zaporizhzhia: At least five killed in a recent strike.
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Ternopil: Russian missile and drone attack killed at least 26, with 17 missing.
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Russia claims it intercepted 33 Ukrainian drones over several regions.
Zelensky highlighted that Ukraine has maintained pressure on Russian military infrastructure using drones and long-range attacks, but the conflict remains intense.
Zelensky’s message
The Ukrainian President reiterated:
“From the first days of the war, we have upheld one very simple position: Ukraine needs peace. A real peace – one that will not be broken by a third invasion.”
He expressed appreciation for the efforts of the US administration while asserting that any peace plan must safeguard the dignity and sovereignty of Ukraine.
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