Why It Matters
The plan will force Ukraine to make harsh concessions, including losing even more territory than Russia currently controls. Zelensky informed the Trump administration that he is ready to negotiate, but the White House is pressuring him to sign an agreement within a week.
What He Said
"This is one of the most difficult moments in our history. The pressure on Ukraine is now among the heaviest. Ukraine may now face a very difficult choice: loss of dignity or the risk of losing a key partner."
– Zelensky stated in his video address, according to translations published by several media outlets.
Zelensky warned that Ukraine will face an "extremely harsh winter" if he rejects Trump's proposal. He said that American officials "expect a response from us."
Between the Lines
Considering his statement that accepting the current agreement would force Ukraine to live "without freedom, without dignity, without justice," it does not seem that his response could be positive.
However, he said he would work with the U.S. to find solutions:
"I will provide arguments, I will persuade, I will offer alternatives."
Zelensky made it clear that he will actively rely on European support as he faces intense pressure from the U.S.
What’s Happening
Zelensky held phone calls on Friday with the leaders of France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, who are helping Ukraine formulate a response to the American plan and develop alternative proposals.
"We remember that Europe was with us. We believe that Europe will be with us."
– Zelensky said in his address.
Zelensky also spoke with Vice President Pence on Friday. The White House made it clear that it wants him to sign by Thanksgiving, two sources told Axios.
A senior White House official stated that the U.S. security guarantees proposed in the plan are a "major victory" for Zelensky, and claimed that Ukraine is likely to lose territory that it is being asked to give up if the war continues.
Intrigue
The standoff with Trump comes amid a corruption scandal unfolding that touches some of Zelensky's close associates, creating political pressure on the president.
An American official told Axios that the internal scandal may make Zelensky more willing to make tough concessions for peace. Some analysts think the opposite – that the uncertainty surrounding his political future means he cannot afford to appear as if he is selling out to Moscow.
In his address, Zelensky called for unity and urged Ukrainians to focus on the threat from Russia.
