U.S. Vice President JD Vance has indicated that the United States may disengage from peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia if both parties do not accept a proposed settlement that includes freezing the conflict along current frontlines. The proposal, backed by the Trump administration, suggests territorial concessions from both sides and aims to establish a demilitarized zone to prevent further hostilities.
Speaking from India, Vance emphasized that the plan represents a final offer, urging Ukraine and Russia to make decisive choices. The proposal includes recognizing Russian sovereignty over Crimea and ceding control of certain occupied regions, in exchange for security guarantees and partial sovereignty benefits to Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed openness to a ceasefire but firmly rejects any formal recognition of Russian territorial gains. He insists on a complete and unconditional ceasefire as a prerequisite for broader negotiations.
The peace talks have faced challenges, with a recent meeting in London downgraded to involve lower-ranking officials after Ukraine declined to sign the U.S. proposal. European allies have expressed concerns about a land-for-peace deal that would concede occupied territories.