KYIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the nation on Friday, highlighting a critical juncture for Ukraine as it navigates a proposed U.S. peace plan that may jeopardize its sovereignty. Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine faces a difficult decision: either uphold its dignity or risk losing vital American support. The U.S. proposal, which has been characterized as favoring Russia, includes demands for Ukraine to cede territory, limit its military size, and abandon its aspirations for NATO membership.

In his speech, Zelenskyy emphasized the gravity of the situation, saying, "Currently, the pressure on Ukraine is one of the hardest. Ukraine may now face a very difficult choice, either losing its dignity or the risk of losing a key partner." He noted that he had discussions with U.S. officials, including Vice President JD Vance and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, about the peace proposal, which he described as one of the most challenging moments in Ukraine's history.

Russian President Vladimir Putin responded cautiously to the U.S. plan, suggesting it could serve as a foundation for a final peace settlement. However, he accused Ukraine of being unrealistic and resistant to the proposal. The plan reportedly requires Ukraine to recognize regions such as Crimea, Luhansk, and Donetsk as de facto Russian territory, a condition that Kyiv has consistently rejected.

Zelenskyy did not outright dismiss the U.S. proposal but insisted on fair treatment for Ukraine. He urged unity among Ukrainians, referencing internal divisions exacerbated by a recent corruption scandal. He acknowledged the difficulty of upcoming peace talks, stating, "We will not give the enemy reasons to claim that Ukraine doesn’t want peace."

The U.S. has increased pressure on Ukraine to accept the deal, threatening to cut off intelligence sharing and military support if an agreement is not reached by next Thursday. Trump, in a radio interview, indicated that Ukraine must respond to the proposal soon, stating, "If things are working well, you tend to extend the deadlines. But Thursday is it — we think an appropriate time."

European leaders have expressed concern over the U.S. plan, which they believe undermines Ukraine's position. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty during a call with Zelenskyy. They emphasized that Ukraine's armed forces must remain capable of defending the nation.

The European Union is also grappling with how to respond to the U.S. proposals, which caught many leaders off guard. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that Russia's war against Ukraine poses an existential threat to Europe, insisting that any agreement must respect Ukraine's sovereignty.

As discussions continue, Zelenskyy remains committed to negotiating a path forward that honors Ukraine's principles of sovereignty and security. He reiterated his dedication to defending Ukraine's interests, stating, "We did not betray Ukraine then. We will not betray it now."