The United States has delivered a stark ultimatum to Ukraine, demanding it sign a framework for a peace deal with Russia within days or face a potentially devastating cut-off of American military support.
The US Ultimatum and Its Stipulations
According to sources, Washington has told Kyiv it must agree to the 28-point US-proposed plan by next Thursday. This framework, advanced by the administration of Donald Trump, is reported to include significant concessions to Moscow.
The proposed terms would require Ukraine to cede occupied territory to Russia, substantially reduce the size of its military forces, and formally renounce any future pursuit of NATO membership.
Unprecedented Pressure and International Reaction
The pressure being applied by the US is described as unprecedented. Beyond the threatened suspension of weapons deliveries, officials are also reportedly considering cutting off sharing of intelligence with Ukraine, a critical component of its defence efforts.
The proposed deal has been met with fierce criticism. A Ukrainian MP has labelled the terms "absolutely unacceptable," while the EU chief has stressed that any agreement must necessarily involve Kyiv's full and willing participation. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly stated he will not "betray" his country.
A Crucial Call and An Uncertain Future
The escalating situation is set to come to a head next week when Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump are scheduled to discuss the contentious plans in a direct call. This conversation follows Ukraine's official denial that it had already agreed to the deal.
President Zelensky has asserted that the US has the power to make Russia serious about ending the war, highlighting the complex diplomatic dynamics at play as the deadline looms.
