Zelensky Says Ukraine Ready to Work on U.S.-Backed Peace Plan

Ukraine is prepared to work on a U.S.-proposed peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with Russia, President Volodymyr Zelensky has said. The White House claims the proposal was drafted based on feedback from both Kyiv and Moscow, though several European countries accuse Washington of tailoring the plan in Russia’s favor.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin met frontline troops to assess battlefield developments, and continued attacks—including a strike in Zaporizhzhia—have left at least five people dead.

As the Russia-Ukraine war approaches its fourth year, Ukrainian forces remain under increasing pressure. Nearly 19 percent of Ukrainian territory is currently under Russian control. Late on Thursday night, a guided bomb attack in the southeastern city of Zaporizhzhia caused extensive damage to vehicles and residential buildings, leaving several civilians killed and many injured. Despite ongoing discussions surrounding peace efforts, Russian strikes have continued unabated.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has stepped forward with a 28-point peace initiative, according to international media. The proposal reportedly suggests Ukraine cede certain territories in eastern Ukraine—areas not yet controlled by Moscow—in exchange for long-term security guarantees for both Ukraine and Europe against future Russian aggression.

Following a meeting with senior U.S. military officials visiting Kyiv, Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine is willing to engage constructively with Washington’s plan. His office said they have already received a draft and expect to discuss the details directly with Trump soon.

Zelensky said, “I thank President Donald Trump. On behalf of Ukraine and our team, I send our sincere greetings. His efforts for peace in Ukraine will be remembered. The Ukrainian nation is grateful to the United States.”

However, several European leaders have sharply criticized the proposal, calling it akin to forcing Ukraine into surrender. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that any peace framework must include the voices of Ukraine and Europe, alleging that the proposed plan was crafted primarily through discussions with Russia.

The White House rejected these claims, saying the proposal reflects discussions with both sides and aims to be an acceptable and effective roadmap for peace. White House Press Secretary Karine Lavitt said the plan is still evolving, but Washington believes it holds potential for both parties.

Meanwhile, President Putin visited soldiers and senior commanders on the front lines. Briefing Putin, Russian military officials claimed that 70 percent of Pokrovsk in Donetsk and 80 percent of Vovchansk in Kharkiv are now under Russian control. Putin said Russia must create opportunities for Ukrainian troops to surrender safely.

At a UN Security Council meeting, the U.S. urged both sides to pursue diplomacy as the only path to a just and lasting peace. Ukraine accused Russia of genocide and systematic terror, while Moscow blamed Kyiv for prolonging the conflict.