Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has indicated his willingness to reject Donald Trump’s controversial peace deal, warning that Ukraine may choose to endure an “extremely difficult winter” rather than sign the agreement. Zelenskyy called the choice “impossible,” as the US-backed proposal, demanding territorial cessions, is condemned as capitulation.
The pressure is extreme due to Trump’s arbitrary timeline, setting Thanksgiving next Thursday as the “acceptable deadline” for Ukraine to sign the deal. This swift ultimatum has caused deep concern across Europe, where leaders view the terms as dangerously one-sided, requiring major concessions that would severely compromise Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
In a somber address, Zelenskyy detailed the nation’s profound dilemma: maintain national dignity or concede to terms heavily influenced by Russia under US pressure. He emphasized that the immediate choice is between signing the agreement or confronting the hardships of a prolonged winter campaign.
The President argued fiercely that accepting the deal would strip Ukraine of its freedom, dignity, and justice. He issued a grave warning against trusting Russia, referencing the historical fact of two invasions. He vowed to protect the constitution and never betray his people, proudly referencing the national refusal to surrender in 2022.
European leaders immediately rejected Trump’s proposed map, which would compel Ukraine to surrender key urban centers and reduce its military strength. They stood united, demanding that any durable peace must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and must be negotiated from the existing line of contact, not terms dictated by Russia.
