Ukraine's allies are set to convene at the G20 summit in South Africa to consider ways to "strengthen" a US plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia, according to UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. This development comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the current situation as "one of the most difficult moments in our history," referring to the pressuring circumstances surrounding the acceptance of the plan. Reports indicate that leaked details of the US proposal are seen as advantageous to Moscow.
Prior to the summit, Zelensky engaged in phone discussions with Sir Keir and the leaders of France and Germany. Following these talks, the UK Prime Minister emphasized that Ukraine's "friends and partners" are dedicated to achieving a "lasting peace once and for all." Neither US President Donald Trump nor Russian President Vladimir Putin are participating in the G20 discussions.
The US peace proposal, which has been widely leaked, contains elements that Kyiv has previously rejected, including surrendering control of certain eastern territories. In an effort to gain acceptance, Washington has dispatched senior Pentagon officials to Ukraine earlier in the week. However, there is significant apprehension in Europe about what is perceived as a proposal heavily skewed in Russia's favor. The EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, expressed concern over the proposal's adoption, labeling it a "very dangerous moment." She stated, "We all want this war to end, but how it ends matters. Russia has no legal right whatsoever to any concessions from the country it invaded; ultimately, the terms of any agreement are for Ukraine to decide."
Ahead of the G20 talks, Sir Keir indicated that the assembled leaders will "discuss the current proposal on the table, and in support of President Trump's push for peace, look at how we can strengthen this plan for the next phase of negotiations." He highlighted Ukraine's persistent call for an end to Russia's "illegal invasion" and for the withdrawal of Russian forces. He asserted, "Ukraine has been ready to negotiate for months, while Russia has stalled and continued its murderous rampage."
According to the White House's proposal, Ukraine would be required to reduce its army size and pledge not to seek NATO membership, a demand long held by the Kremlin. On Friday, Trump cautioned that Ukraine could lose additional territory to Russia if the plan isn't accepted soon, labeling Thursday—Thanksgiving in the US—as an "appropriate" deadline for agreement.
Amidst ongoing fighting, Russian troops have been slowly advancing despite incurring heavy losses, while Ukraine relies on US-made advanced weaponry and intelligence from Washington to sustain its defense. Notably, US Vice-President JD Vance remarked that it's unrealistic to expect victory merely through increased financial aid, weapons, or sanctions.
Speaking during a security cabinet meeting, Putin confirmed that the US had presented its peace plan, noting that while it could form a basis for agreement, detailed discussions in the Kremlin have yet to occur. He expressed Russia's willingness to "show flexibility" but also readiness to continue fighting.
In a brief address from Kyiv, Zelensky warned of potential "pressure... to weaken us, to divide us." He emphasized Ukraine's restraint in making public statements, reiterating a commitment to work "calmly" with the US and other allies to propose alternatives to the US plan.