Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told Ukrainians the country is entering “one of the hardest moments” of its modern history, urging unity as Kyiv prepares to respond to a draft US peace proposal that could reshape the course of the war.
The emerging American plan - still unofficial - outlines 28 steps toward ending the conflict, including major territorial concessions, limits on Ukraine’s military, and eased sanctions on Russia. Kyiv says any settlement must protect its sovereignty, while European allies insist Ukraine must be involved in shaping any deal.
President refuses to break oath amid mounting pressure
In his address, Zelenskyy warned that Ukraine may soon face a choice between “losing dignity” or risking the support of its most important partner. He stressed that he will not break the oath he took when assuming office and promised to defend “freedom” and “dignity” as core principles in any negotiations.
He said Ukraine will work “calmly” with the US and other partners to look for a constructive path forward. The president suggested Kyiv would present its own alternatives, saying he will fight to ensure that any agreement reflects the values Ukrainians have defended since the first day of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Unity call comes as domestic tensions rise
Zelenskyy also urged the public and political class to “get it together” and end domestic infighting, saying unity is essential at a moment when Russian forces continue to strike cities and pressure the front line.
He recalled how, in the early hours of the 2022 invasion, Kyiv faced ultimatums that it rejected - and insisted Ukraine would not betray itself now.
The president added that Ukrainians have endured almost four years of bombardment and loss, stressing that even the strongest nation has limits. “We may be steel, but even the strongest metal can break,” he said.
European allies signal resistance to forced concessions
Internationally, reports of the draft plan have drawn concern. EU foreign ministers meeting in Brussels signaled they would not support a settlement based on forcing concessions from Ukraine. They also reiterated that any peace plan must involve Kyiv and align with international law.
Zelenskyy coordinates with Washington on revised framework
Zelenskyy’s remarks came as Ukrainian officials insist they are engaging with Washington in good faith. His government has already reviewed the US proposal and says work is under way to refine it into something Kyiv can accept.
Later on Friday, Zelenskyy said he held a nearly hour-long call with US Vice President JD Vance and US Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll to discuss details of the American proposal.
He said both sides aim to shape a “worthy and effective” path toward a lasting peace and will coordinate closely with European partners at the adviser level. Ukraine, he added, welcomes any realistic initiative that helps end the bloodshed. “Teams are ready to work 24/7,” he said.
