Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky fired back at mounting U.S. pressure on November 21, 2025, rejecting a controversial 28-point peace framework pushed by Washington. With a tight Thanksgiving deadline looming, Zelensky warned the nation faces a grim choice: “either losing dignity or the risk of losing a key partner.” The veiled reference to the U.S. comes amid threats to halt weapons and intelligence support if Kyiv refuses to sign on.
‘Plan’ Drafted Without Ukraine – Kremlin Gets What It Wants
The peace plan was hatched behind Ukraine’s back in Miami meetings by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian adviser Kirill Dmitriev. It mirrors many Kremlin demands: full cession of the coveted Donbas region and frozen frontline lines—essentially rewarding Russian aggression. European allies have slammed the blueprint as nothing less than “capitulation.”
In a defiant 10-minute video, Zelensky acknowledged U.S. efforts but vowed a “dignified peace.” He promised to “present arguments, persuade, and propose alternatives,” urging unity amid “attempts to weaken us.” Meanwhile, talks are scheduled with former U.S. President Donald Trump, and coordination continues with European leaders.
U.S. Officials Push ‘Workable’ Solution – Ukraine Pushes Back
Zelensky met U.S. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll in Kyiv on November 20, where the plan was officially handed over. Driscoll touted it as a “workable path to peace,” with Zelensky agreeing to “constructive, honest, and swift” adviser-level talks. But Kyiv insiders stress this is still just discussion — not acceptance.
Battlefield Blowbacks and Domestic Turmoil Weaken Ukraine
- Russia now controls roughly 19% of Ukraine’s territory—up from 18% last year.
- Massive manpower crisis: 80% draft evasion and 21,000 desertions last month alone.
- Corruption scandals clamp down as top energy and justice ministers were fired November 19.
- Russian strikes killed 26 civilians, including three kids in Ternopil, marking 2025’s deadliest attack.
The violence underscores Moscow’s relentless military pressure even as peace talks drag on.
Key Demands Tilted Towards Putin
The leaked 28-point framework demands Kyiv hand over the entire Donbas industrial heartland (44,800 sq km) and freeze lines in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia—with Russia returning only minor territories. Shockingly, the U.S. would effectively recognise Crimea and other Russian-held regions as Moscow’s.
Military cuts slash Ukraine’s army from 900,000 to 600,000, ban long-range missiles, and prohibit NATO membership or forces on Ukrainian soil. Economically, Russia would rejoin the G8, sanctions would lift, and $100bn in frozen assets would bankroll U.S.-led reconstruction—half the profits going to America.
Politically, Ukraine must hold elections within 100 days (a Kremlin ploy threatening Zelensky’s grip) and create demilitarized Donbas zones. Enforcement? Primarily a Trump-led “Peace Council” with murky powers.
“This framework is heavily tilted towards Putin,” warned the Financial Times. Axios called it “very comfortable for Moscow,” rewarding Russia without meaningful concessions.
Europe Stands Firm Behind Zelensky
European leaders rallied during a November 21 call, pledging “full support for a lasting and just peace.” British PM Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German opposition leader Friedrich Merz insisted the frontline lines remain a baseline and Ukraine’s forces stay intact.
EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas declared: “Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine. One aggressor, one victim—no Russian concessions.” French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot slammed the plan as “peace cannot be capitulation.”
White House Holds Firm, Kremlin Satisfied
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the push: “The president supports this plan. It’s a good plan for both with full security guarantees.” Trump stressed the November 27 Thanksgiving deadline, saying Zelensky “has until then.”
Kremlin aide Dmitriev expressed Moscow feels “heard,” hinting satisfaction with the terms. Russian strikes continue unabated, killing five in Zaporizhzhia on November 20, signaling no let-up in hostilities.
Nato Tensions Rise as Ukraine Refuses to Bend
Poland voiced alarm over border security if Russia consolidates gains. Critics warn lifting sanctions and G8 reinstatement bolster Putin’s war machine, potentially funding more aggression. Internal Ukrainian challenges, including corruption probes and energy blackouts, add fuel to the fire.
With no direct Kyiv-Moscow talks since summer and Trump’s “aggressive timeline,” Zelensky’s options grow narrow. Experts see his stance as “nuanced resistance” but warn of a brutal winter if Kyiv refuses and Western aid retreats.
Zelensky vowed: “We did not betray Ukraine then, we will not do so now.” But the ticking Thanksgiving clock tests if Kyiv can hold its ground against Russian forces and mounting American pressure.
