As the conflict in Ukraine nears its tenth month, the United States is reportedly spearheading a new diplomatic effort to reach a resolution, despite growing concerns from Kyiv about the potential terms. The push for negotiations comes amid stalled military progress and increasing international pressure for a path toward peace, with Washington signaling a willingness to explore frameworks that may require concessions from Ukraine regarding territory and military size. The situation is further complicated by a reported corruption scandal within Ukraine and shifting demands from the Kremlin, setting the stage for delicate talks involving both political and military leaders.
The United States is reportedly pushing for a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, circulating a new peace framework that has raised concerns within Kyiv. The move comes as the war approaches its tenth month with no clear end in sight, and as international pressure mounts for a diplomatic solution.
According to a source within the Ukrainian presidential office, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkov, in direct contact with Kirill Dmitriev, a senior economic advisor to Russia, is developing a new peace plan. Axios confirmed that the Trump administration has begun informing Ukrainian and European representatives about the proposal.
Washington is signaling that Ukraine may be expected to accept a framework for ending the war that would require Kyiv to cede territory and certain weapons systems. Proposals also include a reduction in the size of the Ukrainian military, among other concessions.
The source in the presidential office indicated a lack of enthusiasm for the potential plan, telling Kyiv Independent that Washington appears to be moving toward a framework aligned with Moscow’s demands.
During previous rounds of negotiations, the Kremlin had softened some of its initial demands, focusing primarily on territorial concessions from Ukraine. However, previously rejected demands now appear to be resurfacing.
Another Kyiv Independent source familiar with the U.S. proposal stated that the Kremlin has tightened its conditions, sensing a deteriorating situation for Ukraine on the front lines and capitalizing on a major corruption scandal involving individuals close to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
On November 18, Zelenskyy announced a trip to Turkey to “revive negotiations” with Russia, signaling renewed efforts to engage through multiple channels. On the same day, Trump stated, “I stopped eight wars,” and added, “I have another one to stop with (Vladimir) Putin. I’m a little surprised by Putin. It took me longer than I thought.”
“I stopped eight wars,” the U.S. president said. “And I have another one to stop with (Vladimir) Putin. I’m a little surprised by Putin. It took me longer than I thought.”
Alongside the political discussions, a separate, military-led peace track appears to be taking shape. Kyiv Independent learned that a delegation led by military officials will report its findings to the White House after assessing the situation on the ground in Ukraine. The delegation is then expected to travel to Moscow for talks with Russian representatives.
The last direct talks between Kyiv and Moscow occurred nearly four months ago. The core positions of both sides remain unchanged.
Kyiv, with the support of European governments, continues to insist on a ceasefire along the existing front line. Moscow maintains its demand that Ukraine cede control of the eastern Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
Responding to questions about the recent diplomatic activity, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated on November 19, “No, there is nothing to report at this time,” indicating no significant developments since the earlier meeting between Putin and Trump in Alaska.
“No, there is nothing to report at this time,” Peskov said.
Following his trip to Turkey, Zelenskyy posted on X, stating, “Only President Trump and the United States have enough power to finally end the war,” adding that Ukraine has supported “every strong and just proposal for ending this war” in recent months.
Zelenskyy welcomed Turkey’s willingness to engage in diplomatic efforts and noted that Kyiv is “ready to work in any other meaningful formats that can lead to results.” He emphasized that the primary way to stop the “bloodshed and achieve lasting peace” is for Ukraine to work with its allies, and for U.S. leadership to “remain effective, strong, and achieve a peace that will last long and ensure security.”
