Former President Donald Trump has claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky “isn’t ready” to approve a US-crafted peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Speaking on Sunday, Trump expressed frustration that Zelensky had not yet reviewed the proposal, despite a positive reception from Ukrainian negotiators.
The remarks followed three days of intensive discussions in Florida between US and Ukrainian officials seeking to resolve differences over key aspects of the plan, including territorial disputes and the status of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. While Trump suggested that Russia may be amenable to the proposal, Zelensky’s hesitation highlights the complexities of negotiating peace amid continued military attacks and rising tensions in the region.
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Trump Criticizes Zelensky’s Hesitation
Speaking to reporters before attending the Kennedy Center Honors, Trump expressed disappointment that Zelensky had not yet reviewed the US plan. “I’m a little bit disappointed that President Zelensky hasn’t yet read the proposal, that was as of a few hours ago. His people love it, but he hasn’t,” Trump said.
The former president added, “Russia is, I believe, fine with it, but I’m not sure that Zelensky’s fine with it. His people love it. But he isn’t ready.”
While Trump emphasized his frustration with Zelensky’s pace, Russian President Vladimir Putin has not publicly endorsed the plan. Last week, Putin described elements of the proposal as unworkable, despite its provisions largely favoring Moscow.
Background on US-Ukraine Negotiations
Trump has maintained a mixed relationship with Zelensky, consistently criticizing US involvement in the nearly four-year conflict. He has repeatedly suggested Ukraine should cede territory to Russia, arguing that the war has cost too many lives and resources.
Zelensky, meanwhile, confirmed Saturday that he had held a “substantive phone call” with US negotiators in Florida. He stressed that Ukraine remains committed to pursuing peace in good faith. “Ukraine is determined to keep working in good faith with the American side to genuinely achieve peace,” he said via social media.
Russia Responds to US Peace Efforts
Russia welcomed the Trump administration’s updated national security strategy, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noting the document promotes dialogue and cooperation. Published by Russia’s Tass news agency, Peskov said Moscow hopes the strategy could lead to “further constructive cooperation with Washington on the Ukrainian settlement.”
The White House strategy emphasizes ending the war as a core US interest and seeks to restore strategic stability with Russia, reflecting a shift from treating Moscow as a global pariah.
Key Challenges in Peace Talks
Outgoing US Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg described progress as being “in the last 10 meters,” with major sticking points including the status of the Donbas region and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Russia currently controls most of Donbas, along with two southern regions annexed three years ago. The Zaporizhzhia facility, under Russian control, is non-operational and requires reliable power to safely cool its reactors and spent fuel.
Meanwhile, leaders from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany are scheduled to meet with Zelensky in London on Monday to discuss the ongoing conflict and potential peace measures.
Escalating Violence in Ukraine
Despite diplomatic efforts, violence continues across Ukraine. Russian attacks over the weekend killed at least four people. A drone strike hit Chernihiv, while combined missile and drone attacks on Kremenchuk caused power and water outages, affecting a major oil refinery and industrial hub.
In Kharkiv, shelling by Russian forces killed three people and injured ten more. Ukrainian officials accuse Moscow of “weaponizing” winter by targeting critical infrastructure and depriving civilians of heat, electricity, and water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the US peace plan for Ukraine?
The plan, proposed under the Trump administration, aims to end the Russia-Ukraine war through negotiated settlements on territorial disputes and security arrangements. Key points include addressing control over the Donbas region and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
Why does Trump say Zelensky isn’t ready?
Trump claimed that Ukrainian President Zelensky had not yet reviewed or approved the US proposal, although Ukrainian officials involved in the talks reportedly support it. Trump suggested Zelensky’s hesitation is slowing progress.
Has Russia approved the US peace plan?
Russian President Vladimir Putin has not publicly endorsed the plan. Last week, he stated that some aspects are unworkable, even though the draft largely favors Moscow. However, Russia has welcomed the US administration’s updated national security strategy, which emphasizes dialogue and cooperation.
What are the main sticking points in the peace talks?
The two primary issues are territorial control, particularly in the Donbas region, and the status of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which is under Russian control and currently non-operational.
How is Ukraine responding to the US peace efforts?
President Zelensky has stated that Ukraine is committed to working in good faith with the US to achieve peace. He has received updates from US and Ukrainian officials participating in the Florida negotiations.
Are other countries involved in the talks?
Yes, leaders from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany are scheduled to meet with Zelensky in London to discuss potential solutions and support Ukraine’s peace efforts.
Conclusion
The US-led peace proposal for Ukraine faces significant hurdles as diplomatic efforts intersect with ongoing conflict on the ground. While the Trump administration views the plan as a viable path to ending the war, Zelensky’s hesitation and unresolved issues over territorial control and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant highlight the complexities of negotiation.
