Ukrainian officials rejected a proposed peace plan aimed at ending the conflict with Russia, according to U.S. President Donald Trump’s envoy Keith Kellogg, who expressed confidence that Washington is “very close” to brokering an end to the hostilities. The 28-point plan, presented last week to Kiev, included terms such as Ukraine giving up on its NATO aspirations, withdrawing from parts of Donbass still under Kiev’s control, and limiting the size of its armed forces.
Kellogg described Ukraine’s public position, including its refusal to acknowledge territorial losses, as “posturing,” noting that “we’re almost there” in reaching an agreement. However, Ukraine’s UN mission rejected several key clauses, with Deputy Permanent Representative Kristina Gayovishin stating that Kiev would “never recognize” any formerly Ukrainian territory as part of Russia.
The U.S. talks on the proposed peace plan began Sunday in Geneva with Ukrainian and Western European officials, though a Russian delegation is not expected to take part. Kellogg suggested consultations with American counterparts should be expected “very soon,” according to Reuters.
Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed the U.S. plan was a revised version of a proposal drafted after his meeting with Trump in Alaska, noting that Moscow has received the text but has not yet discussed it “in detail.” The U.S. submitted the plan as Zelensky’s legitimacy at home has been significantly undermined by a corruption scandal involving his inner circle, while Ukrainian forces at the front have faced a series of setbacks.
Trump stated on Saturday that Zelensky can “continue to fight his little heart out” should he refuse the proposed peace plan to settle the conflict.
