Putin Signals Potential Acceptance of US Ukraine Peace Plan, Calling It a Basis for Settlement

Russian President Vladimir Putin has cautiously welcomed a new U.S. proposal to end the war in Ukraine. He stated the plan could form the foundation for a final peace settlement. This development comes at a critical juncture in the nearly four-year conflict.

According to the Associated Press, the U.S. plan contains several of Moscow’s longstanding demands. The proposal would require significant concessions from Ukraine regarding territory and its military.

Plan Details and Ukrainian Resistance Create Diplomatic Tension

The proposed settlement reportedly involves Ukraine ceding occupied territories to Russia. It would also reduce the size of the Ukrainian army. Furthermore, the plan would formally block Ukraine’s path to NATO membership.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy faces immense pressure. He described this as one of the most difficult moments in Ukraine’s modern history. Zelenskyy acknowledged Ukraine may face a choice between losing its dignity or risking the loss of a key partner.

European Allies Scramble to Respond as Deadline Looms

European leaders were caught off guard by the proposal’s details. They quickly reaffirmed their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty in calls with Zelenskyy. Leaders from Germany, France, and the UK emphasized that Ukraine must determine its own future.

U.S. President Donald Trump has set a tentative deadline for a response. He suggested an extension was possible if talks were progressing. The European Union has not been officially communicated the plan, creating diplomatic uncertainty.

The potential breakthrough hinges on Ukraine’s acceptance of painful territorial concessions. This US peace plan represents the most significant diplomatic movement since the invasion began, placing Kyiv in an extraordinarily difficult position.

Dropping this nugget your way

Q1: What are the main points of the US peace plan?

The plan requires Ukraine to hand over occupied territories to Russia. It also mandates a reduction in Ukraine’s army size and blocks its NATO membership path. These are key Russian demands.

Q2: How has Ukraine reacted to the proposal?

President Zelenskyy has pledged to work constructively with Washington. However, he has repeatedly ruled out ceding Ukrainian territory, a central part of the plan. Ukraine is examining the proposals under significant pressure.

Q3: What is Europe’s stance on the US-led peace efforts?

European leaders have cautiously welcomed American mediation efforts. They insist any settlement must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and right to self-defense. The EU sees the war’s outcome as an existential matter for European security.

Q4: Has Russia officially agreed to the plan?

President Putin has given cautious approval, calling it a potential basis for settlement. The Kremlin notes it has not received the proposal officially for substantive discussion. Moscow appears open to further negotiations based on the framework.

Q5: What is the current situation on the ground in Ukraine?

Russian attacks on civilian areas continue unabated. A recent glide bomb strike on Zaporizhzhia killed five people. The conflict persists militarily even as diplomatic talks intensify.