As global leaders gather for the G20 summit in South Africa, Ukraine’s key allies are preparing to intensify discussions around a controversial White House peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing war with Russia. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer confirmed that talks will focus on “strengthening” the proposal, even as Kyiv warns of heightened pressure to accept terms viewed by many as overly favourable to Moscow.
The summit begins just a day after President Volodymyr Zelensky cautioned that Ukraine is experiencing “one of the most difficult moments in our history.” Leaked details of the US-backed plan suggest concessions that Kyiv had previously rejected, including ceding control of certain eastern territories, reducing the size of its military, and pledging not to join Nato—long-standing demands of the Kremlin.
Despite the sensitivity of the proposal, Sir Keir emphasised that Ukraine’s allies remain united in seeking a “just and lasting peace.” After holding phone talks with leaders of France, Germany, and Ukraine, he affirmed that Western partners stand firmly behind Kyiv, even as the US applies pressure for movement.
Notably, neither US President Donald Trump nor Russian President Vladimir Putin is attending the G20 summit. Nevertheless, both leaders have addressed the peace plan. Trump said Ukraine must approve the proposal soon, warning that Kyiv risks losing more territory if the conflict continues. Putin, meanwhile, indicated the plan could serve as a “basis” for negotiations but stressed that Russia is prepared to continue fighting.
European leaders have expressed deep concern over the reported terms. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described the situation as a “very dangerous moment,” adding that Russia “has no legal right to any concessions from the country it invaded.”
Zelensky insists Ukraine will propose alternatives and continue working closely with the US and European partners. With Russia controlling roughly 20% of Ukrainian territory and advancing slowly along the front line, the stakes at the G20 summit are exceptionally high.
As discussions unfold, Kyiv hopes its allies will reinforce—not weaken—its position on the global stage.
