Zelensky signals openness to ‘honest work’ with US as new peace plan surfaces
Ukraine entered a tense diplomatic phase this week as President Volodymyr Zelensky signaled his willingness to engage in “honest work” with the United States on a new peace plan aimed at ending the war with Russia. The development came after Washington shared a draft proposal that several US media outlets reported on, sparking intense debate in Kyiv and beyond.
A Controversial Draft Emerges
US outlets reported that the draft plan asks Ukraine to cede remaining parts of Donbas, shrink its army, and abandon hopes of joining NATO. It also urges Kyiv to limit certain weapons. These points—if accurate—would tilt heavily toward Moscow’s long-standing demands.
However, details remain unclear. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the US engaged “equally with both sides” and insisted the plan did not force unfair concessions on Ukraine. She described it as balanced and said Washington wants a deal acceptable to both nations.
Kyiv Responds With Caution
Zelensky’s office confirmed that Ukraine will work on the plan’s provisions in the hope of securing a “just end” to the war. He said he expects to speak with President Donald Trump soon to discuss the proposal further.
In an online statement, Zelensky acknowledged that the US presented its vision for ending the conflict. He said he outlined Ukraine’s core principles and agreed that both sides would continue talks to ensure “genuine” outcomes.
A senior US official told CBS News that Trump’s team drafted the plan after discussions with Zelensky aide Rustem Umerov, who agreed to most elements after suggesting changes. He then delivered the plan to the president.
US Team Pushes Forward
Leavitt explained that US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio spent a month shaping the proposal. They spoke to both Kyiv and Moscow to understand what each side might accept for “lasting peace.” She called the document a strong basis for progress but refused to reveal specifics.
Europe Watches From the Sidelines
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said Europe had no role in drafting the plan. She warned that any workable agreement must include both Ukrainians and Europeans, underscoring rising concerns among NATO allies that Washington may be acting alone.
Moscow Dismisses the Moment
The Kremlin downplayed the plan. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said there were “contacts” with the US but no formal consultations. He added that any deal must address the “root causes of the conflict,” a phrase Russia uses to demand sweeping Ukrainian concessions.
UK Reaffirms Kyiv’s Autonomy
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reiterated that Ukraine must decide its own future. He said the principle of Ukrainian sovereignty remains essential for a just peace.
Violence Continues on the Ground
Even as diplomacy accelerates, the war remains brutal. Russian forces struck Zaporizhzhia on Thursday, killing at least five people. Earlier in the week, a major missile and drone attack hit Ternopil, killing 26. Seventeen people remained missing as Zelensky expressed condolences.
A Difficult Road Ahead
Trump, now in his second term, has pushed various peace initiatives—from meeting Vladimir Putin in Alaska to multiple envoy trips to Moscow. But the two sides remain far apart as the war approaches its fourth anniversary.
Zelensky said Ukraine wants a “worthy peace” that protects the dignity of its people. Yet the proposed plan raises questions about what compromises Kyiv can accept, and whether Washington’s approach aligns with Europe’s goals.
As diplomacy intensifies, Ukraine faces a new strategic crossroads—one shaped by battlefield pressures, US politics, and its own fight to protect national identity.
