European Leaders Craft Alternatives to U.S. Peace Plan for Ukraine

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (AP) — European leaders are gathering on Saturday to discuss alternatives to a U.S. plan aimed at ending Russia‘s war in Ukraine, which many believe favors Moscow. This meeting comes as a key Ukrainian delegation prepares for direct talks with U.S. officials.

The proposed 28-point plan, which would require Ukraine to concede territory to Russia, has provoked alarm in Kyiv and across Europe. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed concern that his country may face a difficult choice between defending its sovereignty and maintaining vital American support.

The U.S. proposal suggests reducing Ukraine’s military size and obstructing its NATO membership aspirations, incorporating many demands made by Moscow. In response, Ukrainian officials are set to meet a U.S. delegation in Switzerland, a top Ukrainian official confirmed.

U.S. President Donald Trump urged Ukraine to respond to the proposal by next week, stressing the urgency of the situation. Meanwhile, European allies have cautioned against hastily accepting a peace deal, underscoring the critical implications for their own security.

On the sidelines of the G20 summit, leaders in Johannesburg are demonstrating solidarity with Ukraine. “These discussions will revolve around Ukraine’s interests and the parameters of a future peace agreement,” said Rustem Umerov, Ukraine’s former defense minister.

The talks will include nine Ukrainian officials, including Zelenskyy’s chief of staff, Andrii Yermak. Umerov noted their mandate to engage directly in negotiations with Russia.

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized Russia’s inconsistent commitment to peace, stating, “Time and again, Russia pretends to be serious about peace, but their actions never live up to their words.”

Additionally, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the principle that there should be “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.” This sentiment aligns with the urgent need for a stable resolution to the conflict.

As discussions continue, Zelenskyy marked Holodomor Memorial Day, a somber reminder of historical struggles. He remarked, “We defended, defend, and will always defend Ukraine. Because only here is our home.”