New York, November 23, 2025
The United States has asserted it authored a draft peace plan aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, negotiated primarily with Russia but shared with Ukraine and European partners. The plan, revealing significant concessions to Russia, has sparked cautious responses from Kyiv amid mounting diplomatic tensions across the region.
US Lead Role in Peace Proposal
The US government insists it took the lead in formulating a detailed 28-point peace proposal jointly with Russian officials, emphasizing its central role in drafting the plan. This draft outlines terms that include territorial adjustments in the Donbas region, restrictions on Ukraine’s military capabilities, and practical recognition of Crimea as Russian-controlled. US envoy Steve Witkoff and Russia’s Kirill Dmitriev were principal figures in the negotiation process.
Key Provisions Favoring Russia
Among the plan’s contentious elements are concessions that align closely with Kremlin demands. These include ceding parts of the Donbas to Russian control, limitations on Ukraine’s long-range weapons, and provisions for sanctions relief contingent on Russia halting military operations. The language of the document reportedly reflects Russian narratives in various sections, underscoring the collaborative but highly sensitive nature of the discussions.
Ukraine’s Stance and Red Lines
Kyiv has received the draft and signaled openness to engaging constructively with the peace proposal. However, Ukrainian officials have firmly rejected any forced territorial concessions without their full and voluntary agreement, emphasizing clear “red lines” in defending national sovereignty. Ukrainian leadership remains cautious and non-committal regarding the plan’s key provisions amid ongoing conflict on the ground.
Diplomatic Strains and Pressure Tactics
The US reportedly has exerted pressure on Ukraine to accept the peace framework, including threats to suspend arms and intelligence support if Kyiv does not commit by a deadline in late November 2025. European diplomats have expressed concern at being sidelined in the negotiation process, stressing that Ukraine and European interests must be fully involved in any peace discussions — echoing the principle that there should be “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine, and nothing about Europe without Europe.”
Complicating Factors and Regional Implications
Despite the US’s framing of the draft as generous and a path to end hostilities, ongoing fighting in eastern Ukraine complicates the feasibility of immediate peace progress. The peace plan underscores the deep geopolitical contest involving Washington, Moscow, Kyiv, and European capitals, each navigating delicate strategic and political stakes.
The unfolding situation highlights the precarious nature of any ceasefire or settlement in Ukraine. How Kyiv and its partners respond to the US-authored proposal will likely shape the trajectory of the conflict and broader regional stability in the months ahead.