21-11-2025

US-Russia Draft Ukraine Peace Plan Sparks Controversy

Date: 21-11-2025
Sources: bbc.com: 2 | cbsnews.com: 1 | economist.com: 1 | foxnews.com: 1 | news.sky.com: 2 | nypost.com: 1
Image for cluster 14
Image Source:

Source: foxnews.com

Image content: The image depicts a formal meeting between two men, captured in a moment of mutual respect and understanding. * **Main Subject or Scene:** The main subject of the image is the handshake between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy. * **People, Objects, Locations, or Events:** * Two men are visible in the image: Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy. * The background features ornate gold decorations on the walls, suggesting a luxurious setting, likely the White House. * A doorway with glass panels is visible behind the men, adding to the sense of grandeur. * Two beige chairs are positioned behind the men, indicating a formal meeting or reception area. * **News-Worthy Elements or Context:** * The handshake between Trump and Zelenskyy implies a diplomatic meeting or discussion. * The formal attire worn by Trump and the casual yet neat appearance of Zelenskyy suggest a blend of official and relaxed tones in their interaction

Summary

A draft peace plan for the Ukraine conflict, formulated by US and Russian officials, has sparked controversy due to its requirements for Ukraine to cede territory, reduce its military, and abandon certain weaponry, aligning with Russia's long-held demands. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is cautious, as rejecting the plan could lead to an ultimatum from US President Donald Trump.

Key Points

  • The draft plan was developed by US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian counterpart Kirill Dmitriev without input from Ukraine or Europe.
  • The plan requires Ukraine to make significant concessions, including ceding territory, reducing its military, and pledging not to join NATO.
  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is open to working with the US on the plan but has expressed concerns about its implications.
  • The plan has been met with skepticism, with some viewing it as favoring Russian demands and potentially emboldening Putin's aggression.

Articles in this Cluster

Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev: Putin propagandist or key to peace with Ukraine?

The article discusses Kirill Dmitriev, a Russian diplomat and head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, who has been involved in diplomatic efforts to end the conflict in Ukraine. Dmitriev has a deep understanding of the US and has worked with US officials, including special envoy Steve Witkoff. However, his role has been met with skepticism, with some viewing him as a Putin propagandist. The article explores Dmitriev's background, his relationship with Putin, and his involvement in diplomatic initiatives.
Entities: Kirill Dmitriev, Russia, Ukraine, US, PutinTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Zelensky ready to work with US on 'their vision' for ending Ukraine war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is open to working with the US on a plan to end the war with Russia, despite initial reservations about the leaked draft proposal. The plan, developed by US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian counterpart Kirill Dmitriev, includes significant concessions from Ukraine, such as ceding territory, reducing its military, and pledging not to join NATO. The White House has pushed back on claims that Ukraine was not involved in the drafting process, while Zelensky's office has issued a cautious statement, emphasizing the need for a 'worthy peace' that respects Ukraine's dignity.
Entities: Volodymyr Zelensky, United States, Russia, Ukraine, NATOTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Zelenskyy receives draft plan from U.S. aimed at ending Russia-Ukraine war - CBS News

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has received a draft plan aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, according to his office. The plan, reportedly backed by US President Donald Trump, was drafted by envoy Steve Witkoff and an adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The proposal calls for Ukraine to abandon territory, give up some weapons, and shrink its army. Zelenskyy's office stated that they will work on the plan's points to bring the war to a 'dignified end.' However, Ukraine has previously made clear that it needs security guarantees from the US and its Western partners. The White House confirmed that Trump is backing the 28-point plan, but it's unclear if this is the same plan received by Zelenskyy. The US has imposed sanctions on Russian oil and gas, which have started to take a toll on Russia's economy.
Entities: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Donald Trump, Steve Witkoff, Vladimir Putin, UkraineTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Don’t let a scandal undermine the defence of Ukraine

The article discusses a scandal involving kickbacks and money-laundering centered on Ukraine's state-owned nuclear-power agency, Energoatom, which is undermining the country's defense against Russia. The scandal has led to the removal of two ministers and the arrest of one, with more high-level casualties expected. The article argues that the scandal is not only infuriating for Ukraine's Western supporters but also devastating for ordinary Ukrainians who are fighting against Russia. The alleged misappropriation of huge sums, potentially $100m, has deprived Ukrainian troops of resources during an existential struggle.
Entities: Volodymyr Zelensky, Russia, Ukraine, Energoatom, Vladimir PutinTone: urgentSentiment: negativeIntent: persuade

US, Russia Draft Ukraine Peace Plan Requiring Concessions | Fox News

The United States and Russia have drafted a peace plan for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, requiring significant concessions from Kyiv. The plan, which has been supported by President Donald Trump, involves Ukraine ceding territory to Russia, abandoning certain weaponry, and rolling back some US military assistance. Russia would gain control of the entire eastern Donbas region, a key goal of their invasion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has previously ruled out ceding territory to Russia, and Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that there are currently no formal consultations between the US and Russia on ending the war.
Entities: United States, Russia, Ukraine, Donald Trump, Volodymyr ZelenskyyTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Ukraine and Europe cannot reject Trump's plan - they will play for time and hope he can still be persuaded to desert the Kremlin | World News | Sky News

The article discusses the recent 28-point peace plan proposed by the Donald Trump administration for the Ukraine conflict, which was formulated between Trump negotiator Steve Witkoff and Kremlin official Kirill Dmitriev without input from Europe or Ukraine. The plan is seen as favoring Russian demands and is considered non-viable by Ukrainians as it requires them to cede territory they've defended for years, significantly reduce their military capabilities, and prohibits foreign peacekeeping forces. Despite its unpopularity, Ukraine and Europe are cautious about outright rejection to avoid alienating Trump, who has already stopped financial support for Ukraine and is selling weapons to Europe to pass on to Ukraine. The situation is critical as Ukraine faces intense drone attacks, is on the verge of losing a key city, and is dealing with internal political crises. The article suggests that while the plan may unify support around Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the real fear is that Trump's team is looking for ways to exit the conflict, potentially at Ukraine's expense.
Entities: Donald Trump, Steve Witkoff, Kirill Dmitriev, Ukraine, EuropeTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Why Zelenskyy has to tread carefully over peace plan, or face a Trump ultimatum | World News | Sky News

The article discusses the potential new peace plan for the Ukraine conflict, reportedly being drawn up by the US and Russia, which has sparked concerns in Ukraine and Europe. The plan includes concessions that align with Russia's long-held demands, such as Ukraine giving up territory in the Donbas and reducing its armed forces. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is cautious, as rejecting the plan could lead to an ultimatum from US President Donald Trump, potentially leaving Ukraine isolated. The article highlights the complexities of the situation and the challenges Zelenskyy faces in navigating the diplomatic landscape.
Entities: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Donald Trump, Ukraine, Russia, Vladimir PutinTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

We shouldn't reward Russia with a 'peace' that leaves Ukraine carved up and helpless | New York Post

The article argues that Ukraine should not be pressured into accepting a peace deal that rewards Russia's aggression by ceding more territory and reducing its military capabilities. The author contends that such a deal would embolden Putin and allow him to continue his aggressive actions in the future. The article also touches on a separate issue, condemning anti-Semitic protests outside a synagogue in Manhattan.
Entities: Russia, Ukraine, President Trump, Steve Witkoff, Kirill DmitrievTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: critique