Kyiv Alarmed by Trump’s Urge to End Ukraine War

Ukraine is concerned as the US pushes a draft peace plan that aligns closely with Russia’s demands.

sarah

Nov 21, 2025 - 19:18

Kyiv Alarmed by Trump’s Urge to End Ukraine War

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been careful not to criticize or reject the US draft peace agreement to end the Ukrainian war – even though it largely reflects many of Moscow's demands.

On Thursday, the White House rejected claims that Ukraine was not involved in the draft plan, which emerged after a meeting between the US and Russia.

In his evening speech, Zelenskyy said that Ukraine needs peace and will engage in diplomacy and not make any hasty statements. He said Ukraine is "ready for constructive, honest, and efficient work."

But there are deep concerns about some of the reported proposals, which include leaving the entire Donbas region, reducing the size of Ukraine's military, and refusing the presence of international troops in the country – concessions that Ukraine has previously refused.

Ukrainian MP Yaroslav Yurchyshyn told the Kyiv Independent that Washington "wants a quick peace at the expense of one side they consider weak."

Recent events may have further weakened Ukraine's position. Russia has made further advances in the eastern part of the country. Moscow's long-range attacks on Ukraine's grid have caused power outages across much of the country. Allegations of serious corruption in the Ukrainian government have also fueled political strife and distracted attention from the war.

All these issues are impossible for both Washington and Moscow to ignore.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that difficult decisions will be required from both sides for peace to be achieved. A draft document published in the media includes a promise of "reliable security guarantees" for Ukraine.

It is believed to suggest that some of Russia's frozen assets should be used to help rebuild Ukraine. Although the draft rejects Ukraine's membership in the NATO military alliance, it leaves the door open for European Union membership.

Europe itself appears to have had no role in drafting this plan. There is no mention of the UK and France's efforts to provide an international reassurance force in Ukraine if a ceasefire occurs. The draft explicitly rejects the presence of foreign troops.

Europe wants its voice to be heard. Pressure from European allies could still help Zelensky change the draft proposal.

But it may not be long. US officials who presented the plan, approved by US President Donald Trump, are said to be working on a fast timetable – weeks, not months. They are expected to visit Moscow soon.

Any hope of bringing Russian President Vladimir Putin and Zelensky together for talks appears to be fading.

Trump, who often claims he can end the war quickly, appears to be running out of patience. He simply wants both sides to sign a deal.