Reuters: Zelenskyy stakes dignity against US-backed peace terms

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned on November 21 that Ukraine risks losing its dignity, freedom, or U.S. support over a controversial 28-point U.S. peace plan that endorses key Russian demands.

The proposal, promoted by President Donald Trump, reportedly calls for Ukraine to cede territory, limit its military, and renounce NATO membership.

Trump told Fox News Radio that Kyiv should accept the plan within a week, citing the approaching winter and urgency to end the bloodshed. “He’ll have to like it, and if he doesn’t, they should just keep fighting,” Trump said.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin said the plan could form the basis for a final resolution of the nearly four-year conflict, but noted Kyiv and its European allies do not fully grasp Russia’s advances. Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President JD Vance described the idea that Ukraine could achieve victory with more aid or sanctions as “a fantasy.”

Zelenskyy, who has previously rejected the plan as capitulation, emphasised the need to preserve Ukrainian dignity and freedom. “I will fight 24/7 to ensure that at least two points in the plan are not overlooked – the dignity and freedom of Ukrainians,” he said, urging national unity.

The plan reportedly requires Ukraine to withdraw from Russian-claimed eastern provinces, cap its armed forces at 600,000, and permanently forgo NATO membership. Sanctions against Russia would be gradually lifted, Moscow reintegrated into the G8, and frozen Russian assets partially repurposed into an investment fund. Ukraine would receive only minimal security guarantees.

European leaders, who were not consulted on the U.S. plan, have expressed strong support for Kyiv. Ukraine is reportedly preparing a counter-proposal with Britain, France, and Germany. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called the situation “a very dangerous moment for all,” noting that how the war ends is crucial.

Analysts warn that accepting a poor deal could trigger political, social, and economic instability in Ukraine, with Russia gaining significantly more than Kyiv.

The U.S. peace plan is expected to be a major topic during the G20 summit in Johannesburg, despite Trump’s boycott.

By Tamilla Hasanova