Mixed Signals Emerge as U.S. Claims Ukraine Accepts Peace Plan While Zelensky Urges Caution

A senior U.S. official said this week that Ukraine has agreed in principle to a newly drafted peace proposal aimed at opening the door to formal negotiations with Russia — but President Volodymyr Zelensky pushed back, warning that “much work” still needs to be done before any agreement can be finalized.

The comments from Washington suggested a breakthrough in long-running diplomatic efforts, with the official claiming Ukrainian negotiators had signaled readiness to move forward on a framework that includes security guarantees, phased de-escalation measures, and conditions for future talks. The official described Ukraine’s response as “constructive” and “forward-leaning,” framing the moment as an opportunity to shift the direction of the war.

But Zelensky, speaking separately, took a markedly more cautious tone. While acknowledging ongoing discussions, he emphasized that Ukraine has not endorsed any final plan and stressed that significant obstacles remain. “There is much work ahead,” he said, adding that any peace arrangement must protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and prevent Russia from exploiting negotiations to solidify territorial gains.

The conflicting public signals reflect the diplomatic complexity surrounding the proposal, which has been circulating among European and U.S. officials for weeks. Several Western governments have privately expressed interest in testing whether Moscow is open to a sustained ceasefire or confidence-building measures. Others worry that premature pressure on Kyiv could weaken Ukraine’s position.

In Kyiv, some advisers to the president urged allies to avoid overstating Ukraine’s openness to compromise, warning that miscommunication could embolden Russia or unsettle domestic support for the government’s strategy. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly insisted that any peace process must begin with firm commitments from Moscow to halt attacks and withdraw forces from occupied areas.

Meanwhile, European leaders continue to review the proposal, with some calling for unity and caution as diplomatic momentum grows. Observers note that the mixture of hopeful statements and measured warnings underscores how fragile and uncertain the moment remains.

For now, Ukraine’s stance appears to hinge on whether the proposal can be shaped into a framework that ensures security, justice, and long-term stability — conditions Zelensky says are non-negotiable as the country weighs its next steps in the search for peace.

Author: M.J