Ukraine is set to submit a revised peace plan to the White House, as President Volodymyr Zelensky maintains his firm stance against making territorial concessions to Russia. This move comes as diplomatic efforts intensify amidst ongoing Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine has no legal or moral right to cede land to Russia, according to the country’s constitution and international law.
In a recent press briefing, Zelensky reinforced that any change in borders would require public approval through a referendum. The revised peace plan follows failed negotiations between the U.S. and Ukraine over the weekend. Despite U.S. efforts to find common ground, Kyiv rejected an initial U.S.-backed proposal that would have seen Ukraine cede control over the Donbas region and share energy from the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant with Russia.
As talks progress, Russia’s drone strikes continue to target Ukrainian cities. Over the weekend, Russian drones attacked Sumy, knocking out power in parts of the city. Ukrainian officials reported no casualties but confirmed that infrastructure had been heavily damaged. Zelensky specifically called attention to the eastern Donbas region and the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant as critical areas in ongoing peace discussions.
In response to these threats, Zelensky has engaged in a European diplomatic tour, meeting with leaders from the UK, France, Germany, and the EU. In these meetings, officials expressed continued support for Ukraine and called for a “just and lasting peace.” Zelensky is also working to form an international coalition to provide military support if a peace agreement is eventually reached.
Meanwhile, Moscow has described the talks with the U.S. as constructive but has made little progress on their demands. Former U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that Zelensky himself is the main barrier to a peace deal, claiming that Russia is open to a U.S. proposal. However, Zelensky’s reluctance to accept any territorial compromises remains a key point of contention.
