The term "peace plan" has been widely used in discussions about the Trump administration's approach to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Critics argue that this label is misleading, particularly following Donald Trump's return to the White House in January. During this time, the U.S. foreign-policy establishment was reportedly pressured into negotiating a $500 billion deal with Ukraine, which many see as an attempt to exploit the situation for financial gain rather than a genuine effort for peace.

Trump has claimed that the U.S. spent $300 billion to support Ukraine against Russia's invasion in 2022, a statement that has been challenged by various sources. The Kiel Institute for the World Economy reported that the actual U.S. expenditure was around $119 billion, while European nations contributed approximately $138 billion. Despite these figures, the Trump administration has not allocated any new funds to Ukraine since his inauguration on January 20.

Recently, a document referred to as "Trump’s 28-point peace plan" has drawn significant attention. This plan was reportedly developed in Florida in October by Trump envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian official Kirill Dmitriev, with Jared Kushner also involved. Critics have likened this plan to historical agreements that facilitated conflict rather than peace, such as the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, which allowed Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union to divide Europe before World War II.

The leaked details of the plan suggest it primarily reflects Russian interests, demanding Ukraine's capitulation, including the surrender of Crimea and parts of Eastern Ukraine. It also calls for a reduction of Ukraine's military and the exclusion of NATO troops from Ukrainian territory. Furthermore, it proposes a pardon for Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding war crimes and the lifting of sanctions against Russia.

In response to the backlash, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was sent to Geneva to address concerns, but the situation remains tense. A separate delegation from Trump's inner circle, including Witkoff and Kushner, traveled to Moscow for follow-up discussions. Putin's recent statements indicate a readiness to escalate military actions against Europe, raising alarms among European leaders.

The implications of the plan extend beyond immediate military concerns. It appears that Trump's administration may be seeking preferential access to Russia's frozen sovereign wealth funds in exchange for pressuring Ukraine. This includes potential investments in critical minerals and other resources, which have been contentious among European nations.

As discussions continue, the European Council is set to address the issue of frozen Russian assets in the coming weeks. The situation remains fluid, and the true nature of the negotiations between Trump’s team and Russian officials is under intense scrutiny. Critics urge caution against labeling these efforts as a "peace plan," emphasizing the need for a genuine resolution to the conflict in Ukraine.