The geopolitical landscape surrounding the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war has taken a dramatic turn with the emergence of a new 28-point peace proposal drafted by the United States. What makes the development even more controversial is that the draft was prepared without direct Ukrainian participation, raising deep concerns in Kyiv and across European capitals. As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy prepares for discussions with former US President Donald Trump, the proposed peace plan has sparked debates over sovereignty, security, and the future of Europe’s most volatile conflict.
A Surprise Proposal From Washington
According to diplomatic insiders, the United States has created a detailed peace framework intended to bring an end to nearly three years of conflict. The draft contains 28 key points that outline political, military, and territorial arrangements for a post-war settlement.
What immediately stood out to observers was that Ukraine was not involved in the drafting process. Instead, the US presented the plan to Kyiv only after significant internal discussions had already taken place in Washington.
Ukraine has maintained from the beginning of the war that no negotiation or treaty regarding its territory can occur without Ukrainian approval or participation. This is why the unilateral nature of the document has caused unease within the Ukrainian government.
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The Most Controversial Clause: Ceding Donbas
One of the most alarming elements of the plan, from Kyiv’s perspective, is the suggestion that Ukraine may have to make major territorial concessions, particularly involving the Donbas region. Russia has long sought formal recognition of its control over Donetsk and Luhansk, two regions it claims to have “annexed” after widely disputed referendums.
For Ukraine, however, any recognition of Russian control over Donbas is politically explosive and deeply unpopular at home. Zelenskyy has repeatedly declared that Ukraine will not give up any territory, insisting that peace must be based on the restoration of internationally recognized borders.
Thus, the requirement to cede Donbas appears especially problematic and potentially destabilizing for Ukraine’s internal unity. It also risks setting a precedent that territories taken by force can be legitimized with diplomatic pressure.
Kyiv’s Concerns and Europe’s Worries
Kyiv has reacted cautiously but firmly, signaling that any peace plan must align with its own vision, not simply reflect external interests. Ukrainian officials fear that being pressured into concessions—particularly under the argument of “ending the war quickly”—could undermine both Ukraine’s sovereignty and its long-term security.
European nations, especially those bordering Russia, are also uneasy. Countries like Poland, the Baltic states, and Romania worry that a settlement forced on Ukraine could embolden Russia and encourage future territorial aggression. For them, the war is not just about Ukraine’s survival—it is about the stability of the entire European region.
Diplomats have warned that a rushed or one-sided peace plan may inadvertently reward Russia for its invasion and weaken the foundational rules of international conduct.
Why the US Is Pushing for a Solution Now
There are several reasons the United States may be accelerating efforts toward a negotiated settlement:
1. War Fatigue
The prolonged conflict has strained Western economies and military resources. Aid to Ukraine has faced political resistance in the US Congress, making long-term support uncertain.
2. Growing Global Instability
The US is managing multiple international crises—from tensions in the Middle East to challenges in the Indo-Pacific—which creates pressure to reduce involvement in Ukraine.
3. The Return of Trump
With Donald Trump back in the political arena, Washington is recalibrating its foreign policy approach. Trump has previously claimed he could end the Russia-Ukraine war “within 24 hours,” raising expectations—and fears—about his strategy.
4. The 2024 US Elections
Domestic politics inevitably influences foreign policy decisions. A pathway to peace could be seen as a diplomatic win for the administration, but any misstep could backfire.
Zelenskyy Set to Speak With Trump
Amid this geopolitical shift, Zelenskyy is preparing for a crucial conversation with Donald Trump, who has expressed skepticism about the scale of US aid to Ukraine. Zelenskyy has long sought to maintain strong bipartisan American support, but the possibility of policy changes under a future Trump administration creates new uncertainties.
The Ukrainian leader is expected to urge Trump to continue US backing and to avoid any deal that undermines Ukraine’s territorial integrity. However, Trump’s emphasis on fast results and reduced foreign engagement could create friction between the two.
How Russia Is Responding
Although Russia has not formally commented on the US draft plan, analysts believe Moscow would welcome any settlement involving territorial concessions. Russia has consistently demanded recognition of its control over Crimea and parts of eastern Ukraine as a core condition for peace talks.
However, accepting a US-led proposal without negotiations might seem unlikely for Moscow. Russia prefers agreements that reflect its own strategic goals, not those shaped by Washington.
What Ukraine Wants in a Peace Deal
Ukraine’s official position has not changed. Kyiv insists that:
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All Russian troops must leave Ukrainian territory
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Ukraine must regain full control over its borders
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There must be accountability for war crimes
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Any agreement must strengthen, not weaken, Ukraine’s long-term security
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Its sovereignty should never be compromised for short-term peace
Zelenskyy’s 10-point peace formula—presented globally in 2022—continues to be the foundation of Ukraine’s diplomatic stance.
The Geopolitical Stakes
A peace agreement forced upon Ukraine without its input would not only jeopardize its territorial sovereignty but might also undermine trust between Kyiv and its Western allies. It could also fracture the unity of NATO countries, many of whom believe that only Ukraine should determine the terms of peace.
At the same time, prolonging the war indefinitely carries humanitarian, economic, and military burdens on all sides.
The world stands at a delicate crossroads: resolving the conflict requires balancing immediate peace with long-term security and justice.
Conclusion
The US-drafted 28-point peace plan has opened a new phase in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. By proposing a settlement without Ukrainian involvement—and including controversial concessions such as ceding Donbas—Washington risks creating diplomatic tension with Kyiv and its European allies.
As Zelenskyy prepares for pivotal talks with Donald Trump, the future of the war may depend on how Ukraine navigates pressure from its most important partners. The world will be closely watching whether peace is achieved through true diplomacy or whether geopolitical expediency shapes the outcome of Europe’s most consequential conflict in decades.
