US Vice President J.D. Vance issued a statement on social media after a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In his message, Vance defended the so-called Trump peace plan, which has recently been the subject of much critical discussion among American political elites.
Vance emphasized that any peace agreement should respect Ukrainian sovereignty, be acceptable to both Russia and Ukraine, and ensure the war does not resume. He criticized those who believe that increasing US support for Ukraine would guarantee victory in the conflict, calling such views unrealistic.
His statement came amid a wave of sharp criticism of the Trump plan from both Republican and Democratic members of Congress. Despite this, Vance remains a key figure overseeing preparations for peace talks. US Army Secretary Driscoll, a close associate of Vance, met with Zelensky to present the 28-point peace plan.
President Zelensky has approved a Ukrainian delegation to discuss the plan's details with US officials. It is unknown if Russian representatives will participate in these talks. Questions remain about the value of such negotiations without the Kremlin's agreement on the plan's main points.
European leaders are also seeking to persuade Donald Trump to adopt a more realistic approach to the plan. Currently, Trump is mainly interested in a quick signing of the agreement together with Zelensky, although ending the war depends on Russian President Vladimir Putin's stance. Putin has indicated he is satisfied with either negotiations or continuing hostilities.
According to the author, without Putin's consent to a ceasefire, all such initiatives remain largely ineffective. A truly effective peace process must focus on ending hostilities and increasing pressure on Russia.
