The Ukraine peace talks opened in Geneva as US, Ukrainian, and European officials reviewed Washington’s draft plan to end the war. Trump accused Ukraine of ingratitude despite ongoing US weapons support. He also warned Zelensky to approve the plan, which demands territorial concessions and limits on Ukraine’s military. Many Ukrainians see these terms as surrender after years of intense fighting. The tense atmosphere shaped the first day of negotiations.
Meanwhile, confusion grew over who designed the plan. European allies said they were not consulted and quickly drafted their own version to protect Ukraine’s security. Rubio insisted Washington wrote the original proposal after senators suggested it echoed Russian demands. Germany said any deal must satisfy Ukraine’s needs before talks with Moscow. These disputes added more pressure to the Ukraine peace talks in Geneva.
READ MORE:Russia backs Trump’s peace plan for Ukraine
The timing of the draft plan worries Ukrainian leaders. Russian forces continue slow advances near Pokrovsk while Ukraine faces manpower shortages. Missile strikes have damaged energy sites across the country, leaving millions without water, heat or power. Zelensky also faces a corruption scandal that threatens public trust. He warned that accepting a weak deal could cost Ukraine its dignity, freedom and long-term support from Washington.
The peace proposal was authored by the U.S.
It is offered as a strong framework for ongoing negotiations
It is based on input from the Russian side. But it is also based on previous and ongoing input from Ukraine. https://t.co/JWbAQ04kcw
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) November 23, 2025
Even so, Kyiv welcomed diplomacy in Geneva and hoped for progress. Recent US sanctions on Russian oil boosted Ukraine’s confidence, and its long-range strikes damaged Russian infrastructure. However, Washington’s proposal could give Moscow a stronger diplomatic position while limiting Ukraine’s ability to fight. A US official said nothing will be final until Trump and Zelensky meet face-to-face. Key US envoys arrived in Geneva to push the process forward.
READ MORE:Western leaders say US plan for Ukraine peace needs work
European advisers first met Ukraine’s delegation before reviewing the plan with Washington. They called the proposal a starting point but said more work was needed. Erdogan plans to discuss the plan with Putin and update Western allies afterward. Russia said the idea could guide future talks but may resist clauses requiring troop withdrawal. As the Ukraine peace talks continue, all sides face difficult decisions about security, territory and long-term peace.