Ukraine delivered a forceful message at the UN Security Council as Kyiv responded to the Trump administration’s 28-point peace blueprint. Deputy Permanent Representative Khrystyna Hayovyshyn confirmed that Ukraine had formally reviewed the proposal but stressed that several demands clash with national sovereignty and long-term security interests.
She emphasised that Ukraine would never recognise Russian sovereignty over occupied regions and stated that no outside power could dictate the size or capabilities of Ukraine’s armed forces. According to Hayovyshyn, the freedom to choose alliances is a fundamental right for Ukraine, especially amid ongoing threats faced by the nation.
Key Demands in the 28-Point Proposal
The U.S.-drafted peace plan outlines a series of measures aimed at halting the conflict, but many of its provisions place heavy expectations on Ukraine.
The proposal reportedly requires Ukraine to:
• Accept Russian control over Crimea and significant parts of Donetsk and Luhansk.
• Freeze the front lines, leaving occupied areas under Moscow’s administration.
• Limit Ukraine’s military strength to around 600,000 troops.
• Adopt NATO-neutrality and restrict foreign military presence.
• Allow phased sanctions relief for Russia.
• Receive access to more than $100 billion in frozen Russian assets for reconstruction.
While the plan pledges Western-backed security guarantees, analysts warn that the approach expects Ukraine to concede strategic ground without equivalent commitments from Moscow.
Umerov Denies Approving the Plan, Adding Diplomatic Tension
In a significant development, Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council Secretary, Rustem Umerov, denied U.S. claims that he had approved or modified sections of the 28-point plan. Umerov stated that his recent trip to the United States involved only technical tasks, such as scheduling and coordination, and that he had no authority to approve any modifications.
His denial contradicts statements from U.S. officials who suggested Ukraine had offered positive feedback. The conflicting accounts highlight growing diplomatic friction and raise questions about how the plan is being communicated and interpreted between Washington and Kyiv. Ukraine insists that any official assessments must come directly from authorised channels.
The leaked version of the peace framework circulated through AP intensified the debate, detailing demands for territorial concessions, military limits, NATO neutrality, war amnesties, and sweeping economic terms. These provisions have become central points in Ukraine’s objections.
Kyiv’s Position: Open to Talks, Firm on Sovereignty
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed that Ukraine’s teams are reviewing the proposal in Kyiv, but he reaffirmed that any settlement must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty, protect citizens, and achieve a just peace.
Ukraine’s guiding principles remain unchanged:
• Territorial integrity: Kyiv refuses to recognise illegal annexations or abandon claims to occupied regions.
• Defence rights: Ukraine rejects limitations on its armed forces or strategic partnerships.
• Sovereign decision-making: Any peace agreement must be developed with Ukraine’s full participation and consent.
These principles reflect both the government’s strategic goals and the Ukrainian public’s resilience throughout the war.
Europe Voices Strong Concerns
European leaders have expressed alarm over elements of the plan, warning that a settlement demanding territorial concessions from Ukraine could undermine continental security. Several EU officials argue that the approach risks rewarding aggression and weakening the rules-based international order.
European nations have reiterated that Ukraine must remain central in shaping any peace framework and that Moscow must offer genuine concessions instead of retaining gains through pressure.
A Complex Diplomatic Path
Talks between Ukraine and the United States are expected to continue as both sides determine whether the plan can be revised into a balanced, credible blueprint for peace. Although Washington appears eager for progress, Ukraine is prioritising long-term security considerations, legal obligations, and the realities on the battlefield.
Analysts caution that negotiations may take time, especially if contentious provisions remain unchanged. Ukraine maintains that peace is possible, but only if the framework protects the nation’s sovereignty and future security.
Across global diplomatic halls and on the ground, the message from Kyiv remains resolute- Ukraine welcomes peace, but never at the cost of its dignity, land, or future!
