UPDATE: Thousands of Ukrainian Americans rallied in North Philadelphia just hours ago, vehemently opposing a controversial peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing war in Ukraine. The proposed 28-point peace plan, crafted by Washington and Moscow, has been denounced as a dangerous capitulation to Russia’s demands.
Demonstrators convened outside the Ukrainian American Citizens’ Association on November 23, 2025, brandishing Ukrainian flags and signs emblazoned with messages like, “Appeasement Isn’t Peace.” They condemned the plan for requiring Ukraine to cede territory, diminish its military, and abandon aspirations for NATO membership—conditions that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has previously rejected.
“Nobody in their right mind would ask a country to give up its territory, its military, its freedoms,” stated Ulana Mazurkevich, president of the association, during the passionate rally. The sentiment echoed throughout the crowd, which included families and children, all united in their belief that this plan undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Co-organizer Mary Kalyna expressed deep emotional pain over the proposal, saying, “It’s not just dirt, there are people there.” She emphasized that the plan feels like a reward for Russia’s aggression, stating, “We cannot stand for it.” Her words resonated with rallygoers who passionately sang the Ukrainian national anthem and shouted, “Glory to Ukraine.”
The peace plan, criticized as a “copy-and-paste” of Russia’s demands, would grant almost no concessions from the aggressor while severely weakening an already devastated Ukraine. In exchange, Kyiv is promised international security guarantees and reconstruction assistance, but many fear this comes at an unacceptable cost.
Protesters highlighted the plan’s implications for justice, as it would likely prevent prosecution of Russian officials and soldiers for war crimes. Ukrainian American Eugene Luciw articulated the gravity of this outcome, stating, “The rapists, the murderers, the genocidal maniacs … are all supposed to be forgiven — absolutely no prosecutions.”
This urgent protest comes as tensions rise globally regarding the future of Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict. The rally underscored the emotional and human impact of geopolitical decisions, with many attendees voicing fears for their homeland’s future and the sacrifices made by those who continue to fight for freedom.
As the international community watches closely, the fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance. Activists are calling for more robust support from the U.S. and its allies to ensure that Ukraine’s sovereignty is upheld against external pressures.
The situation remains fluid, with further developments expected in upcoming discussions among U.S. and Ukrainian officials. What happens next could significantly alter the trajectory of this conflict and the lives of millions caught in the crossfire. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
