Zelensky Stands Firm Against U.S. Proposal, Upholds Ukraine’s Dignity Amid War Challenges

On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodyr Zelensky made a strong commitment not to «betray» his nation while openly opposing a U.S. proposal, perceived as favoring Russia, that could potentially conclude the war. He expressed readiness to take this stance even if it meant straining relations with Washington.

In his address, Zelensky stated his intention to offer «arguments» and «alternatives» to the 28-point plan created by the Trump administration, which sent shockwaves through Kyiv and its European allies when its details emerged earlier this week.

This draft, which was reviewed by AFP, reportedly demands that Ukraine surrender territory, significantly downsize its military, commit to not joining NATO, and conduct quick elections. In return, Russia would be allowed to retain the territories it occupies, gain relief from sanctions, and regain membership in the G8.

Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine is at one of its «most challenging moments» in history, facing pressure to choose between «losing its dignity» or «risking the loss of a crucial ally.» He referenced February 2022, asserting, «We didn’t betray Ukraine then, and we won’t do so now.»

According to Zelensky’s office, he had a conversation with U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Friday and plans to directly engage with President Donald Trump soon.

He also conducted an urgent call with the leaders of Britain, France, and Germany, who have felt sidelined in the U.S.-led discussions and expressed concerns about any agreement that involves ceding land to Russia.

The Trump administration rejected claims that it collaborated with Russian officials on this plan, despite reports from various media, while the Kremlin indicated it had not yet received the new ceasefire proposal.

The White House characterized the framework proposal as a «good plan» beneficial for both parties.

However, some of Ukraine’s European partners have raised objections. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Ukraine’s military «must remain capable of defending itself,» and Berlin emphasized that negotiations should be based on the current front lines rather than the ones proposed in the U.S. draft.

During a regular briefing, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov advised that Zelensky should «negotiate now» to avoid further territorial losses, adding that his «freedom to make decisions diminishes as the territory lost to Russian forces increases.»