The BRICS TimesUkrainian President Zelensky rejects a US proposal seen as pro-Russia. He insists on protecting national dignity over accepting unfavorable terms.
Zelensky Stands Firm Against New Proposal
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a strong promise on Friday. He vowed that he would not “betray” his country. He publicly pushed back against a specific U.S. plan. Many see this plan as ending the war on terms favorable to Russia. Zelensky admitted this stance risks alienating Washington. However, he refuses to accept terms that harm his nation’s interests.
Details of the Controversial Draft
In a recent address, Zelensky outlined his next steps. He said he would present “arguments” and “alternatives” soon. He is responding to a 28-point proposal drafted by the Trump administration. This draft stunned Kyiv and its European partners when details leaked earlier this week. The leaked draft, seen by AFP, reportedly makes heavy demands on Ukraine.
Difficult Choices for Ukraine
The plan would require Ukraine to cede territory. It also demands they drastically reduce the size of its military. Ukraine must pledge never to join NATO and hold snap elections. Meanwhile, Russia would be allowed to keep the land its forces have seized. Russia would also receive sanctions relief and rejoin the G8.
A Fight for Dignity
Zelensky warned that Ukraine faced one of the “most difficult moments” in its history. He said the country is being pressed to make a hard choice. They must choose between “the loss of dignity” or “the risk of losing a key partner.” He recalled February 2022 with passion. He said: “We did not betray Ukraine then, and we will not do so now.”
Diplomatic Discussions Continue
Zelensky’s office confirmed a call with U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Friday. Zelensky also plans to speak directly with President Donald Trump in the coming days. He is actively seeking support from other Western allies. He held an emergency call with the leaders of Britain, France, and Germany. These leaders have been largely shut out of the U.S.-driven process. They have voiced unease about any settlement that cedes Ukrainian territory.
Reactions from World Leaders
The Trump administration denied working on the plan with Russian officials. Several news outlets had reported otherwise. The Kremlin said Friday that it had not yet received the new ceasefire proposal. The White House defended the framework agreement. They called it a “good plan” for both sides.
European Allies Voice Concern
Some of Ukraine’s European allies have pushed back against the draft. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made his stance clear. He said Ukraine’s military “must remain capable of defending itself.” Berlin stressed that the current front line should be the basis for talks. This differs from the lines envisioned in the U.S. draft.
Warnings from the Kremlin
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov spoke to reporters during a daily briefing. He warned that Zelensky should “negotiate now” or risk losing more. He added that Zelensky’s “freedom to make decisions is shrinking in proportion to the territory lost” to Russian forces.
