European Leaders Challenge US Peace Plan for Ukraine, Demand Amendments

European leaders have expressed significant reservations regarding a proposed 28-point peace plan from the United States aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. They characterized the proposal as “a draft” that requires substantial revisions to address their concerns before it can be considered a viable agreement. The urgent negotiations occur as Ukraine faces mounting pressure to either accept or reject the plan by Thursday, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warning that the country risks losing both dignity and crucial support.

The joint statement released by key European leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and French President Emmanuel Macron, underscores that while the US plan could serve as a foundation for negotiation, it is not yet final. They emphasized the necessity for amendments to incorporate European and NATO security considerations, which must receive approval from their respective members.

Concerns Over Military and Territorial Provisions

The leaders articulated serious concerns regarding the plan’s implications for Ukraine’s military capacity. They specifically objected to suggestions that Ukraine’s armed forces would be reduced significantly, from nearly 900,000 personnel to 600,000. The statement read, “We are concerned by the proposed limitations on Ukraine’s armed forces,” highlighting a consensus that Ukraine should strengthen its military to deter future aggression.

Additionally, the European leaders rebuffed the notion of altering territorial boundaries through force, directly countering proposals within the 28-point plan that call for substantial territorial concessions. This includes the potential relinquishment of Crimea, Luhansk, and Donetsk to Russia. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The backdrop for these discussions is a series of crucial meetings taking place at the G20 summit in South Africa, where European officials are working to prevent Ukraine from being hurried into a deal that could jeopardize its security. A diplomatic official noted to Euronews that “there is an intense diplomatic effort” to navigate the situation before the impending deadline.

Disparities Over Reparations and Asset Control

Another point of contention involves the handling of frozen Russian assets, primarily held in Europe. The EU is exploring ways to utilize approximately €140 billion of immobilized Russian funds to establish a reparations loan for Ukraine, aimed at addressing its military and budgetary needs through 2026 and 2027. Conversely, the US plan suggests unblocking these assets and allocating them into two investment funds—one for Ukraine and another for Russia—potentially benefiting the US economically.

A European official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, remarked on the “level of economic brutality” perceived in the US proposal, underscoring the need for Europe to retain control over these assets as a strategic tool.

As the situation evolves, European leaders are preparing to meet again on Monday, aiming to present a unified counter-plan led by France and the UK that aligns with their vision for a sustainable peace in Ukraine. The challenge remains to craft an alternative approach without antagonizing US interests, particularly under President Donald Trump, who advocates for a swift resolution.

In a poignant address, President Zelenskyy conveyed the weight of the decision facing Ukraine: the country must navigate a difficult choice between preserving its dignity and maintaining the support of the United States. The outcome of these negotiations will have profound implications for Ukraine’s future and its standing within the broader international community.