Zelensky Rejects Revised U.S. Proposal, Insists Ukraine Must Retain Donbas

Ukraine and Europe Submit Counteroffer After U.S. Revision

President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly rejected the latest U.S. draft that still calls for Ukraine to cede the Donbas region, making it clear that the territorial question remains unresolved.

The Ukrainian leader told reporters that any peace plan must guarantee the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and that a demand to abandon Donbas is “non‑negotiable.”

In response, Kyiv, together with several European partners, presented a counterproposal to Washington. The new document stresses:

• Recognition of Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders, including the Donbas and Crimea.
• A phased withdrawal of Russian forces under international supervision.
• Comprehensive security guarantees for Ukraine, backed by NATO and the EU.

The United States has said it will review the counterproposal, but officials acknowledge that the “core issues” – particularly the status of Donbas – will be the toughest part of any negotiation.

Analysts note that while the revised U.S. plan was intended to move talks forward, the insistence on a Donbas concession could stall progress and push both sides back to the negotiating table.

For now, Zelensky remains resolute: “We will not sacrifice any part of our land for a peace that does not guarantee our future.”