Zelenskiy says he won't betray Ukrainian interests in US-led peace process

US plan pressures Ukraine to cede land and limit NATO ambitions as President Volodymyr Zelenskiy vows unity amid threats of losing key American support. - REUTERS/Filepic
KYIV: President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Friday he would not betray Ukraine's interests in a U.S.-led peace process, warning that Kyiv faces a choice between losing a key partner and its national dignity at one of the most perilous moments in its history.
AI Brief
- Washington's 28-point plan backs some Russian demands, leaves security guarantees vague, and reportedly threatens to cut support if Kyiv refuses.
- Zelenskiy pledges to work with the US but warns of heavy pressure and urges Ukrainians to stay united as Russia escalates attacks and advances.
- The proposal includes Ukraine ceding territory, reducing military size, and abandoning NATO membership, sparking fears of capitulation.
In a somber video statement, Zelenskiy pledged to work with the United States on the plan but said he expects more political pressure over the next week. He urged Ukrainians to remain united in the face of what he said were additional attempts by Russia to derail the peace process.
"Now is one of the most difficult moments of our history. Now, the pressure on Ukraine is one of the heaviest," he said.
"Now, Ukraine can face a very difficult choice — either losing dignity or risk losing a major partner."
Russia is grinding forward on the battlefield and pounding Ukraine's energy system with missiles and drones as a domestic political crisis unfolds over a massive corruption probe involving senior officials and business elites.
Washington has presented Ukraine with terms that include that Kyiv cede additional territory, curb the size of its military and be barred from joining NATO.
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