President Donald Trump announced on November 3, 2023, that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy must approve a proposed peace plan between Russia and Ukraine by Thanksgiving. This ultimatum comes amid ongoing tensions as the conflict continues to affect both nations and their international relations.
Zelenskyy expressed concerns that accepting the proposed agreement could compromise Ukraine’s dignity and jeopardize its support from the United States, a critical ally. According to a U.S. official, who spoke to Scripps News, there is a strong expectation from the U.S. government that Ukraine will agree to the peace deal, with adjustments to be made “by the president himself.”
Details of the Proposed Plan
The White House has reportedly been working on this plan for several weeks. On the same day as Trump’s announcement, Zelenskyy met with U.S. Vice President Vance and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll to discuss the details of the proposal.
While specifics of the plan have not been independently verified, circulated information suggests that Ukraine may be required to relinquish control of certain eastern territories, including the Donbas. Additionally, the agreement could impose restrictions on Ukraine’s military size and limit its aspirations for NATO membership, instead offering security guarantees from the U.S.
In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged that the proposed agreement could serve as a potential foundation for a peace deal, although he refuted claims of ongoing substantial discussions between the two countries.
International Reactions and Next Steps
European allies and NATO members are currently consulting with Ukraine regarding this development. Discussions are expected to continue during the upcoming G20 summit, where President Trump will not be in attendance.
The implications of this peace plan could reshape the geopolitical landscape in Eastern Europe, with potential consequences for Ukraine’s sovereignty and its relationships with both Russia and the U.S. As the deadline approaches, the international community watches closely, weighing the risks and benefits of such a significant agreement.
