UPDATE: European leaders have just announced that the US’s proposed peace plan for Ukraine requires “additional work” as they strive for a better resolution to end Russia’s ongoing war. This urgent statement comes amid escalating pressure from US President Donald Trump, who has set a deadline of Thursday for Ukraine to accept the controversial 28-point plan which includes terms perceived as favorable to Russia.
During a crucial meeting on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, European leaders quickly mobilized to formulate a united response. The US plan, which calls for Ukraine to concede territory and limit its military ambitions, has drawn mixed reactions across Europe. While leaders acknowledge Trump’s efforts to halt the conflict, they stress that some terms are unacceptable for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
In a statement released today, leaders from the European Union, along with key allies like Germany, France, and the UK, stated, “The initial draft of the 28-point plan includes important elements that will be essential for a just and lasting peace. We believe therefore that the draft is a basis which will require additional work.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the stakes for his nation, stating, “We must ensure that nowhere in Europe or the world does the principle prevail that crimes against people and humanity can be rewarded and forgiven.” Zelenskyy is set to engage in discussions with US officials in Switzerland to advocate for Ukraine’s interests.
The urgency of the situation is palpable, as Zelenskyy faces a critical choice: compromise national dignity for international support. He reiterated the need for unity among Ukrainians, promising never to betray their interests. “Ukraine will never be an obstacle to peace,” his presidency stated, reinforcing their commitment to defend the nation’s sovereignty.
To address the peace proposal, national security advisers from the E3—France, the UK, and Germany—will meet with EU, US, and Ukrainian officials in Geneva this coming Sunday. The discussions will center on the proposed plan and its implications for both nations.
Trump’s plan also includes a controversial proposition to invest $100 billion of Russia’s frozen assets in the EU for Ukraine’s reconstruction. However, there are concerns that Russian President Vladimir Putin may resist certain demands in the plan, particularly those requiring his forces to withdraw from occupied territories.
As the clock ticks down to Thursday, the international community watches closely. The situation remains fluid, with leaders scrambling to secure a more favorable outcome for Ukraine while navigating the complex dynamics of Russian negotiations.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. The stakes are incredibly high, and the decisions made in the coming days will have lasting implications for Europe and beyond.
