Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is preparing a revised set of proposals that will be sent to the United States as part of ongoing efforts to find a pathway toward ending the conflict sparked by Russia’s February 2022 invasion. The plan is being finalized during his visit to Italy, where he met with Pope Leo the Fourteenth at Castel Gandolfo.
Before arriving in Italy, Zelensky held a series of meetings in London and Brussels with European leaders. These engagements came as US President Donald Trump continued to press Kyiv to accept a settlement, accusing Zelensky of not giving proper attention to earlier proposals. The first version of Washington’s plan was widely criticised by Ukraine’s partners for leaning too heavily in Russia’s favour.
Zelensky explained that the original twenty eight point proposal had been reduced to twenty points following detailed discussions between Ukrainian and American officials over the weekend. He noted that European and Ukrainian representatives would continue refining these points to ensure Ukraine’s interests are protected.
He admitted that not every idea returned by international partners matched Ukraine’s position, adding that some concerns arose more from Russian pressures than from the Americans. Still, he stressed that Kyiv is committed to presenting its full response to Washington, which he said would be delivered by Tuesday night.
A major controversy within the US proposal involved a suggestion that Ukraine surrender areas not currently under Russian control in exchange for security assurances that fall short of full membership in NATO. Zelensky firmly rejected any suggestion of ceding territory, arguing that Ukrainian law, the constitution and moral responsibility leave no room for such concessions. He also said Kyiv still does not have a clear answer regarding what actions its partners would be ready to take if Russia launches new aggression.
During his meeting with Pope Leo, the pontiff voiced hope that current diplomatic efforts would pave the way for a fair and lasting peace. Zelensky is also expected to meet Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has consistently supported Ukraine despite divisions within her governing coalition. Italy has supplied weapons for Ukraine’s defence but insists they can only be used within Ukrainian territory.
The Italian government recently delayed a decision on extending military assistance beyond December thirty one, a move reportedly influenced by scepticism from Matteo Salvini’s League party. Meloni, however, maintained that Italy will continue providing support as long as the war continues.
Zelensky’s diplomatic tour included a stop in London, where he met the leaders of Britain, France and Germany before heading to Brussels for discussions with the heads of the European Union and NATO. Speaking after the meeting, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasised that Ukraine’s sovereignty must be upheld and that its long term security is vital for Europe.
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed this, saying preparations were underway for strong security guarantees and efforts to support Ukraine’s recovery. He added that the key task now is bridging the gap between Europe’s joint position and that of the United States.
Trump’s stance on Ukraine has fluctuated since returning to office in January. He has alternated between criticising Zelensky for not showing enough gratitude and expressing impatience over stalled efforts to persuade Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt the war. His administration recently responded by imposing sanctions on Russian oil companies.
