Ukraine’s president signals willingness to engage in diplomacy while fighting intensifies, as a controversial US-backed plan draws global attention
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signaled that he is ready to work with the United States on a plan aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war, even as some European allies voice skepticism over a proposal they say could favor Russia.
Zelenskyy’s office confirmed that the president had received a draft plan and discussed it with US Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll in Kyiv. He is expected to speak with US President Donald Trump in the coming days to explore diplomatic options further.
While the plan itself remains unpublished, Zelenskyy emphasized that he had outlined the principles that matter to Ukraine, and that both countries’ teams would work constructively and promptly on the proposal.
Controversial 28-Point Proposal
Media reports suggest the plan could involve Ukraine ceding territory and weapons in exchange for a US security guarantee against future Russian aggression. Axios cited an unnamed US official saying the plan would give Russia control over areas of eastern Ukraine currently outside its reach.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and special envoy Steve Witkoff have been quietly developing the initiative for a month, taking input from both Ukrainian and Russian officials. Leavitt called it a “good plan for both Russia and Ukraine” and said Trump supports it.
European Allies Express Concern
Despite Zelenskyy’s willingness to engage, European leaders remain cautious. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot emphasized that peace must respect sovereignty and cannot be a capitulation. EU foreign policy head Kaja Kallas noted that European support is essential for any proposal to succeed, while Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski stressed that Europe’s security interests must be considered.
Fighting Continues Despite Diplomacy
Even as discussions unfold, fighting on the ground shows little sign of slowing. Russian forces claim to have seized the city of Kupiansk and parts of Pokrovsk and Vovchansk, although Ukraine has firmly denied these reports.
Meanwhile, a massive Russian aerial attack on Ternopil killed at least 26 people and injured dozens, leaving 22 missing, according to Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko. The attack damaged energy infrastructure across seven Ukrainian regions, prompting nationwide power restrictions. Zelenskyy called the assault proof that pressure on Russia to end the war remains insufficient.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
Zelenskyy’s diplomatic tour has included a visit to Turkey, meeting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to revive peace talks with Russia. He stressed reliance on Turkish diplomacy and its influence in Moscow as Ukraine seeks a viable path to end hostilities.
Conclusion
As Ukraine faces both intense military pressure and complex diplomatic negotiations, Zelenskyy’s engagement with the US-backed peace plan may become a critical turning point in the Russia-Ukraine war. Staying informed on these developments is crucial — follow, share, or comment to join the conversation on the evolving conflict.