UPDATE: President Donald Trump has just announced that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy must approve a proposed peace plan regarding the ongoing conflict with Russia by Thanksgiving. This directive marks a critical moment in U.S.-Ukraine relations as the clock is ticking on this urgent decision.
In a move that could reshape the geopolitical landscape, Trump emphasized that the peace plan will only take effect upon Zelenskyy’s endorsement. However, Zelenskyy faces a perilous dilemma; he has expressed concerns that accepting the proposal could undermine Ukraine’s dignity and jeopardize vital support from the United States, a key international ally.
A U.S. official confirmed to Scripps News that there is a strong expectation from the U.S. government for Ukraine to agree to the proposed deal, with critical decisions resting “by the president himself.” The White House has reportedly been developing this plan quietly over the past month.
Earlier today, Zelenskyy met with Vice President Vance and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll to discuss the details of the plan. In a previous statement, Trump remarked, “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 reiterated, “We think we have a way of getting peace. [Zelenskyy is] going to have to approve it.”
Circulated points of the proposed agreement, which have not yet been independently verified, suggest that Ukraine may be required to cede territory in the Donbas region and other areas it currently controls. Furthermore, the plan could restrict Ukraine’s military size and prohibit its pursuit of NATO membership, instead offering security guarantees from the United States.
In response to the unfolding situation, Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated that the agreement could serve as the “basis” for a peace deal, although he denied that substantive talks were currently taking place.
International dynamics are shifting rapidly, with other European allies and NATO members actively consulting with Ukraine regarding this development. A meeting is expected to take place on the sidelines of the upcoming G20 Summit, where President Trump is notably absent.
This urgent situation highlights the precarious balance of power in Eastern Europe, with Zelenskyy’s choice looming large. The implications of his decision could reverberate throughout the region, impacting not just Ukraine’s future, but also its relationships with allies.
As this story develops, the world watches closely. What will Zelenskyy decide before the Thanksgiving deadline? The outcome could redefine the future of Ukraine and its position on the global stage. Stay tuned for more updates on this critical issue.
