Ukraine and United States Set to Discuss US Peace Plan in Switzerland
High-level officials from Ukraine and the United States are preparing to engage in negotiations in Switzerland focused on a US-proposed plan to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. According to statements from Ukrainian authorities, the discussions are expected to center on establishing possible terms for a future peace agreement. Ukraine's presidential office has designated Andriy Yermak, the presidential chief of staff, to head Kyiv's delegation, which will include representatives from Ukraine's military intelligence service.
The upcoming talks are described as a continuation of ongoing diplomatic efforts between the two countries. Ukrainian officials have emphasized the importance of aligning their vision with that of the United States regarding the next steps toward peace. The delegation, formalized through a recent presidential decree, consists of nine members and is expected to include participation from Russian representatives, although this has not yet been officially confirmed by Moscow.
The United States has presented Ukraine with a comprehensive 28-point proposal aimed at resolving the conflict. Key provisions of the US plan reportedly require Ukraine to make significant concessions, such as ceding large areas of eastern Ukraine to Russian control, limiting its military capacity, and foregoing aspirations for NATO membership. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected the plan in its current form, expressing intent to submit alternative proposals. Reports indicate that the US government has set a deadline for Ukraine to respond to the plan within the upcoming week.
European allies of Ukraine have voiced concern over the proposed agreement, underscoring that no decision about Ukraine's future should be made without Kyiv's direct involvement. The Group of 20 (G20) nations, meeting in Johannesburg, issued a statement calling for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, in line with the principles of the United Nations Charter. The G20 also reiterated appeals for peaceful resolutions in other global conflicts, including those in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the occupied Palestinian territories.
During the G20 summit, European leaders such as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer held discussions on the US proposal, which was drafted without European input. They collectively emphasized that any settlement affecting European interests, the European Union, or NATO must be agreed upon by all relevant allies. Chancellor Merz reiterated calls for Russia to end its military campaign in Ukraine, stating that Moscow bears responsibility for the humanitarian and economic consequences of the conflict.
In parallel with the summit, the European Union convened crisis talks involving leaders from Europe, Canada, Australia, and Japan to coordinate approaches to the American proposal and address concerns over potential concessions to Russia. Diplomats indicated that efforts would focus on negotiating changes to the US plan that align with European perspectives.
The United States was not present at the G20 summit, with President Donald Trump having declined to attend, citing human rights concerns in South Africa. US Vice President JD Vance defended the American plan, asserting that critics misunderstand the realities on the ground and emphasizing that a workable peace must be acceptable to both Ukraine and Russia, while also preventing future hostilities. Vance's remarks were echoed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who described the US proposal as a possible foundation for peace but criticized European leaders for their understanding of the conflict, reiterating Russia's intent to achieve its objectives by military means if necessary.
While the US plan has sparked debate among Ukraine's Western supporters, discussions in Switzerland may signal a pivotal step toward exploring diplomatic solutions to the conflict. The outcome of these negotiations, and the willingness of all parties to compromise, will likely shape the next phase of efforts to achieve a durable peace in the region.