President Donald Trump announced on November 24, 2023, that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy must approve a proposed peace plan between Russia and Ukraine by Thanksgiving for it to take effect. During a press conference, Trump emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that swift action is necessary to halt the ongoing conflict.
Zelenskyy has expressed concerns regarding the implications of the proposed agreement. He indicated that accepting the terms could undermine Ukraine’s dignity and jeopardize its relationship with the U.S., a crucial international ally. A U.S. official, speaking to Scripps News, noted that a strong expectation exists for Ukraine to agree to the peace deal, with modifications being determined “by the president himself.”
In an effort to address these concerns, Zelenskyy met with Vice President Vance and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll to discuss the details of the proposal. Zelenskyy stated, “We have a plan. It’s horrible what’s happening. It’s a war that should have never happened and would have never happened if I was president.” He acknowledged the pressure to approve the plan while highlighting the importance of Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Draft points of the peace plan, which have not yet been independently verified, suggest that Ukraine would need to cede some eastern territories, including parts of the Donbas, as well as regions currently under Ukrainian control. Furthermore, the agreement would impose restrictions on Ukraine’s military size and prevent it from seeking NATO membership, instead offering security guarantees from the United States.
Russian President Vladimir Putin remarked that the proposed agreement could serve as a “basis” for a peace deal, but he denied that Russia is engaged in substantial talks at this time. Meanwhile, European allies and NATO members are reportedly consulting with Ukraine regarding the developments and are expected to convene on the sidelines of the upcoming G20 Summit, which Trump will not attend.
As the deadline approaches, the international community is watching closely. The implications of this peace plan could have significant repercussions for the ongoing conflict and the geopolitical landscape in the region. Zelenskyy’s decision will not only shape Ukraine’s immediate future but could also redefine its partnership with the United States and other allies.
