A day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the latest amendments to the peace plan aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war, Kyiv announced that it has “reached an understanding” with the United States on the revised proposal.
The updated document forms part of US President Donald Trump’s 28-point peace plan, which American and Ukrainian officials discussed in detail over the weekend. They worked to shape it in a way that reflects Ukraine’s interests.
Trump Says Both Sides Helped Refine the Proposal
In a Truth Social post, Trump said that the original framework “has been fine-tuned, with additional input from both sides.” He also noted, “I have directed my Special Envoy Steve Witkoff to meet with President Putin in Moscow and, at the same time, Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll will be meeting with the Ukrainians.”
Kyiv confirmed this plan. Zelenskyy’s chief of staff said that US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll is expected in Kyiv later this week. His visit will continue discussions on the redrafted peace plan.
However, the revised proposal has already raised concerns in Moscow. The Kremlin said it has not been consulted about the new amendments and warned that it may refuse to accept changes made to last week’s version.
Moscow Warns of “Fundamentally Different” Situation
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow supported the initial US framework. Yet he stressed that any major revision would create a “fundamentally different” situation. He also accused European countries of weakening American efforts to push for peace.
American officials have not commented publicly on Moscow's objections. Earlier this week, US and Russian officials met in Abu Dhabi, but the talks did not resolve the main disagreements.
The Key Sticking Points
Despite some progress, the core disputes between Kyiv and Moscow remain unresolved. The most sensitive issues involve security guarantees for Ukraine and control over eastern territories.
Both sides have accepted certain elements of the peace plan in principle. However, deep divisions persist over the status of territories seized by Russia, including Crimea. Ukraine and Russia also differ sharply on the demand for a complete Ukrainian withdrawal from the Donbas region, which includes Donetsk and Luhansk.
Zelenskyy Seeks Meeting with Trump
On Tuesday, Zelenskyy said he was prepared to meet Trump to discuss the “sensitive points.” He wants this meeting to take place before the end of the month.
He added, “I am counting on further active cooperation with the American side and with President (Donald) Trump. Much depends on America, because Russia pays the greatest attention to American strength.”
European Leaders Express Doubts
Even as Zelenskyy sounds hopeful, European leaders remain cautious. French President Emmanuel Macron said he saw “no Russian will for a ceasefire.” The UK also warned that there is still “a long way to go – a tough road ahead.”
During a virtual meeting on Tuesday, chaired by Macron and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, European partners agreed to set up a joint task force with the US. The group will work to “accelerate” discussions on security guarantees for Ukraine if a peace deal becomes possible.
However, with Moscow and Kyiv still divided on major issues, the road to a final agreement remains uncertain.