Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reiterated his stance on not giving up any land, defying U.S. pressure for significant concessions to Russia while garnering more support from European allies. Zelenskyy disclosed that ongoing discussions with American and European partners involve three key documents, including a dynamic 20-point framework, a security guarantees agreement, and a plan for Ukraine’s recovery.
He announced that an updated peace proposal from Ukraine would be shared with the U.S., emphasizing the advanced Ukrainian and European components ready for presentation. Zelenskyy expressed readiness to collaborate with the U.S. to swiftly actualize feasible steps. Additionally, he briefed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Ukraine’s situation and appreciated Canada’s steadfast support, including a recent $200 million military equipment announcement.
U.S. President Donald Trump, in an interview with Politico, urged Zelenskyy to accept the U.S. proposal for Ukraine to cede territory to Russia, citing Moscow’s military superiority. However, Zelenskyy firmly stated that conceding land was not an option under Ukrainian law, the constitution, and international norms, rejecting Trump’s call for territorial concessions and a premature presidential election.
Zelenskyy’s engagements included a meeting with Pope Leo at Castel Gandolfo and discussions with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. He highlighted Ukraine’s gratitude for the Pope’s humanitarian aid and briefed on diplomatic efforts for peace with the U.S., seeking the Vatican’s mediation for the return of abducted Ukrainian children.
The Vatican emphasized the importance of dialogue, peace initiatives, and prisoners of war issues in its discussions with Zelenskyy and Putin. Meanwhile, U.S. and Ukrainian negotiators concluded talks aimed at refining the U.S. peace proposal, focusing on ensuring solid security guarantees to deter future Russian aggression.
The U.S. plan’s contentious point of ceding control of eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region to Russia faced staunch opposition from Ukraine and its European allies. Despite Putin’s claims on the region, Zelenskyy and European leaders accused Russia of stalling peace talks to advance its invasion agenda.
Recent hostilities included drone attacks and blackouts in Ukraine, with both sides engaging in military actions. Russia reported downing Ukrainian drones over various regions, including Crimea, resulting in casualties and property damage in some areas.