Ukraine to Meet US in Switzerland as Zelensky Pushes Back on Trump’s Peace Plan

Ukrainian and US officials are set to meet in Switzerland to discuss Washington’s 28-point plan for ending the war with Russia, Kyiv announced on Saturday. The plan, proposed by US President Donald Trump, would require Ukraine to cede territory, reduce its armed forces, and pledge not to join NATO, prompting Kyiv to seek adjustments before any agreement is accepted.

President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a decree establishing Ukraine’s negotiating team, led by his top aide Andriy Yermak, emphasizing that the country’s national interests must be defended and that steps will be taken to prevent a potential third Russian invasion.

Security officials from France, Britain, and Germany will also participate in the talks, scheduled for Sunday in Geneva, according to sources at the G20 summit in South Africa. Rustem Umerov, Ukraine’s security council secretary, confirmed Switzerland as the negotiation venue. Zelensky’s decree noted that “representatives of the Russian Federation” would be included, though Russia has yet to confirm participation.

European allies have voiced concerns over the US plan, warning that it “requires additional work” to ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty and military capability are not undermined. A joint statement from France, Britain, Germany, Canada, and Japan stressed that borders must not be changed by force and cautioned against proposed limitations on Ukraine’s armed forces.

Addressing the nation, Zelensky acknowledged the extraordinary pressure Ukraine faces and signaled plans to propose alternative solutions to Trump’s plan. “Ukraine may face a very difficult choice: either the loss of dignity or the risk of losing a key partner,” he said, highlighting the delicate balance between maintaining national sovereignty and preserving crucial international alliances.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin described the blueprint as potentially laying the foundation for a peace settlement but warned that failure to accept it could result in further territorial gains by Russia. The conflict continues to strain Ukraine, with the Russian army steadily advancing along the front lines and energy infrastructure damage threatening the population during a harsh winter.

The talks in Switzerland represent a critical stage in ongoing diplomatic efforts, as Ukraine seeks to align its defense, territorial integrity, and international support while navigating mounting geopolitical and domestic pressures.