On Friday, November 21, Ukrainian President Zelensky addressed the nation, urging unity among the Ukrainian people and vowing to never betray Ukraine. He also made it clear that an alternative plan to the proposed 28-point peace plan will be put forward.
Previously, the United States had submitted a 28-point peace plan to the Ukrainian authorities aimed at ending the nearly four-year war between Ukraine and Russia. Several American media outlets reported that the plan involved significant concessions to Moscow.
Speaking on the streets outside his office on Friday, Zelensky, who rarely gives important speeches in this location, emphasized that Ukraine is striving to defend its freedom while seeking the support of its most crucial allies.
“Now is one of the most difficult moments in our history. The pressure Ukraine is facing now is also the greatest,” he said. “Now, Ukraine may face a very tough choice – either lose dignity or take the risk of losing an important partner.”
“I will fight day and night, every minute, to ensure that at least two points in the plan are not overlooked – the dignity and freedom of the Ukrainian people,” Zelensky said.
According to a speech released by the Ukrainian President’s office afterward, Zelensky mentioned that he will present an alternative plan to the peace initiative.
The Wall Street Journal reported that the U.S. proposal includes demands for territorial concessions by Ukraine, limitations on the size of active military personnel, and abandonment of the desire to join NATO.
Prior to this, Zelensky had phone calls with the leaders of allied countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, and France on Friday, and later spoke with U.S. Vice President Pence.
European leaders were not involved in the formation of the 28-point plan, but they showed strong support for Ukraine.
The Kremlin stated that Russia has not received any formal documents regarding the peace plan from the United States.
Zelensky stated in his speech, “But one thing is certain: we will not give the enemy any reason to claim that Ukraine does not seek peace, disrupt the peace process, or is unwilling to engage in diplomatic mediation.”
“We will cooperate calmly with the United States and all partners. We will seek constructive solutions together with our main partners,” Zelensky added.
Zelensky is currently facing political pressure domestically and new setbacks on the battlefield. A corruption scandal involving his cabinet members and other political allies has emerged, with representatives of his party calling for major reforms in the government, including the dismissal of Zelensky’s key aides.
On the other hand, the Russian military continues its advance in eastern Ukraine, and Moscow’s attacks on Ukraine’s energy system have led to most regions of the country having only a few hours of power supply each day.