UPDATE: President Donald Trump has imposed a Thanksgiving deadline for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to approve a controversial U.S.-proposed peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia. This urgent development comes amid rising tensions and concerns about Ukraine’s sovereignty.
In a statement Friday, Trump emphasized that the peace plan cannot take effect without Zelenskyy’s approval. However, Zelenskyy has expressed serious concerns, warning that signing the agreement could jeopardize Ukraine’s dignity and its critical partnership with the United States. A U.S. official disclosed to Scripps News that there is an expectation for Ukraine to agree to the plan, with modifications to be determined “by the president himself.”
The White House has been discreetly crafting this proposal over the past month, with discussions intensifying. Earlier today, Zelenskyy met with Vice President Vance and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll to deliberate on the details of the plan, which reportedly includes significant concessions from Ukraine.
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. And it’s a shame. I thought they should have acted quicker. We have a way of getting peace. We think we have a way of getting peace. [Zelenskyy is] going to have to approve it.”
Details of the agreement, though not yet independently verified, suggest that Ukraine may have to cede some eastern territories—including the Donbas—and limit its military size. Additionally, Ukraine would need to abandon its aspirations for NATO membership in favor of security guarantees from the U.S.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has commented that the agreement could serve as a “basis” for a peace deal, but he denied any ongoing substantive discussions. Meanwhile, European allies and NATO members are consulting with Ukraine on this matter, with a critical meeting anticipated at the sidelines of the upcoming G20 Summit. Notably, Trump will not be attending this summit.
The stakes are incredibly high as the deadline approaches. Zelenskyy’s decision could reshape Ukraine’s future, affecting its territorial integrity and international alliances. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on Ukraine and its response to the proposed peace plan.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on this unfolding story as the Thanksgiving deadline looms.
