Diplomatic Showdown in Geneva: U.S., Ukraine, and European Officials Debate Trump’s 28‑Point Peace Plan
Top diplomats from the United States, Ukraine, and several European powers converged in Geneva on 23 November 2025 to negotiate a controversial U.S.-drafted peace plan aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. The meeting is seen as a critical moment — one that could reshape the trajectory of the nearly four-year conflict.
High Stakes in Geneva
Leading the U.S. delegation are Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who are tasked with presenting and defending a 28-point proposal crafted in Washington.
From Europe, national security advisers from France, Britain, and Germany — members of the so-called “E3” — have joined, together with representatives from the European Union and Italy.
Ukraine’s delegation is led by Andriy Yermak, the head of President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s office.
The Contentious 28‑Point Plan
The cornerstone of the discussions is the U.S. peace proposal, which has drawn sharp criticism. Under its terms, Ukraine would be asked to:
- Cede territory to Russia
- Limit the size and capacity of its military
- Give up prospects of NATO membership.
To many in Kyiv and across Europe, these demands appear to tilt heavily toward Moscow — raising fears of a deal that undermines Ukraine’s long-term security and sovereignty.
European Pushback and the Call for Revisions
Several European leaders have openly questioned aspects of the U.S. plan, arguing that key must‑have elements are missing or underplayed.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was especially direct: she stated that Ukraine must retain its territorial integrity and sovereign right to maintain a credible defense.
In her remarks, she stressed three non-negotiables:
- Borders must not be altered by force.
- Ukraine’s armed forces should not be capped in a way that leaves the country vulnerable.
- The European Union must play a central role in any peace process.
A German government source confirmed that a European draft — based on the U.S. proposal but revised to better protect Kyiv’s interests — has been shared with both Ukraine and Washington.
Pressure and Deadlines
President Trump has reportedly given Ukraine until 27 November to accept the plan.
Yet, U.S. officials are signaling flexibility. As one put it, “nothing will be agreed on until the two presidents get together” — meaning Trump and Zelenskiy.
Trump himself has indicated that the current proposal may not be final, suggesting room for further negotiation.
Ukraine, meanwhile, faces a delicate balancing act. While under pressure to respond, its leaders have warned that agreeing to the plan as-is could compromise national dignity or security.
A Pivotal Moment
For Europe, the Geneva talks are more than diplomacy — they are a test of influence. Many Western capitals want to ensure the peace process is not dictated solely by Washington.
For Ukraine, the stakes are existential: accept a plan that may undercut its sovereignty, or risk alienation from key backers
