A newly proposed plan aimed at ending the ongoing war in Ukraine has surfaced, reportedly negotiated between the Trump administration and Russia. This contentious proposal outlines a series of demands that would require Ukraine to cede territory, significantly downsize its military forces, and forfeit certain types of weaponry. The 28-point plan, crafted without the involvement of Ukrainian officials, raises concerns as it echoes the Kremlin’s long-standing maximalist demands, which Ukraine has consistently labeled as a push for capitulation.
According to officials familiar with the proposal, the details were disclosed by two anonymous sources—one Ukrainian and another unspecified. This initiative is part of the Trump administration’s renewed attempt to restart settlement discussions that have stagnated during the nearly four years of conflict. However, some commentators from Ukraine perceive this as an opportunistic tactic by Russia, aiming to extract concessions from Ukraine amidst the backdrop of a high-level corruption scandal that has cast doubt on President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government, potentially jeopardizing international support and aid.
Kostiantyn Yelisieiev, a former adviser on foreign policy and a critic of Zelensky’s administration, noted the current vulnerabilities in Ukraine’s position, emphasizing that the perception of weakness is not only evident domestically but also acknowledged by international partners, including the United States, as well as the aggressor itself.
While the situation remains precarious for Ukraine, the ongoing dialogue around potential negotiations suggests a recognition of the need for resolution, albeit under challenging circumstances. The plan highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics at play and the difficult choices facing Ukraine as it navigates these unprecedented pressures.