Zelensky Vows to Boost Defenses Amid Washington Split Before Switzerland Meeting

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed: "We must do everything to strengthen our defenses in the face of Russian attacks," urging allies to accelerate the delivery of air defense systems and missiles following a Russian strike on an apartment building in Ternopil that killed 33 people.

Controversy over Trump's Peace Plan

• US Split: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio insisted the proposed plan is "drafted by the United States" and is "based on input" from both Russia and Ukraine, denying claims by Senators that the draft was a "Russian wish list."

• Zelensky's Warning: Zelensky warned that the country faces "one of the most difficult moments in its history," and a "very difficult choice: either losing dignity, or the risk of losing a key partner."

• Allies' Reservations: European, Canadian, and Japanese allies expressed concerns over the plan, particularly regarding proposed border changes and restrictions on the Ukrainian military, asserting that borders should not be changed by force.

Key Points of the Leaked Plan

The 28-point plan requires significant concessions from Kyiv in exchange for "reliable security guarantees" (undetailed):

• Territorial Concessions: Ukrainian forces withdraw from the part of Donetsk they currently control, and the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia borders are frozen along current frontlines, effectively placing vast areas under Russian control (including Luhansk and Crimea).

• Military Limitations: Limiting the size of the Ukrainian military to 600,000 troops, with European fighter jets being stationed in neighbouring Poland.

• NATO and Sanctions: Kyiv pledges not to join NATO, and the plan suggests "reintegrating Russia into the global economy" by lifting sanctions and inviting it to rejoin the G7 (making it the G8 again).