In a bold first move to end the Ukraine war, Donald Trump reportedly reached out to Vladimir Putin with a peace proposal. While the Kremlin denies the call, sources say Trump outlined four main points: urging de-escalation, highlighting U.S. military strength, advocating for dialogue, and floating the idea of territorial concessions to end the conflict.
The Emerging Plan
Trump’s suggested framework includes:
- Ceasing hostilities along current lines.
- Establishing a demilitarized zone monitored by European forces.
- Ensuring Ukraine drops its NATO membership bid in exchange for Western military guarantees.
While ambitious, the plan faces skepticism. Questions linger over whether Ukraine would relinquish land, whether Europe can enforce the buffer zone, and whether Russia would tolerate re-arming Ukraine.
Zelensky’s Stark Choices
President Zelensky must navigate a difficult path:
- Take Trump’s deal: Accept peace with territorial losses.
- Double down on European support: Risk battlefield setbacks as U.S. support wanes.
Either choice risks significant consequences, leaving Putin as the potential long-term beneficiary. As Trump works to reshape the conflict’s trajectory, the stakes for Ukraine—and global geopolitics—couldn’t be higher.
