Germany and Allies Demand Revisions to US Ukraine Peace Plan

International Allies Seek Modifications to US Peace Proposal

Germany and a coalition of leading international allies are demanding significant modifications to the United States' proposed 28-point peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The draft plan, which has been presented to Kyiv and Moscow, has drawn criticism for terms that many perceive as heavily favoring Russia.

A joint statement issued by leaders from the European Union, Germany, France, Britain, Canada, the Netherlands, Spain, Finland, Italy, Japan, and Norway, following discussions on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Johannesburg, acknowledged that the initial draft 'includes important elements that will be essential for a just and lasting peace,' but stressed that it 'will require additional work.'

Key Concerns Over Territorial Integrity and Security

The proposed US peace plan reportedly includes provisions that would require Ukraine to cede territory, specifically the eastern Donbas region and Crimea, and to forgo NATO membership, enshrining this in its constitution. Additionally, the plan suggests limiting the size of Ukraine's armed forces to 600,000 personnel and outlines a phased lifting of sanctions against Russia.

Allies have voiced strong objections to several aspects of the proposal. A primary concern is the principle that 'borders must not be changed by force.' Leaders also expressed apprehension that the 'proposed limitations on Ukraine's armed forces, which would leave Ukraine vulnerable to future attack.' Furthermore, they reiterated that any decisions concerning the European Union and NATO would necessitate the consent of their respective member states.

German Stance and Diplomatic Efforts

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has been particularly vocal, stating that 'wars cannot be ended by major powers over the heads of the countries affected,' and emphasizing the need for Kyiv to receive 'robust guarantees.' He held phone conversations with US President Donald Trump and other Western leaders to convey these concerns. A German government spokesperson, Stefan Kornelius, affirmed that any peace plan must include 'a recognition of sovereignty and solid security guarantees' for Ukraine.

Upcoming Talks in Geneva

In response to the widespread concerns, national security advisors from France, Britain, and Germany (the so-called E3) are scheduled to meet with officials from the European Union, the United States, and Ukraine in Geneva on Sunday, November 23, 2025. Italy is also expected to send a representative to these crucial discussions. These talks aim to address the proposed changes and work towards a more acceptable framework for peace.

While President Trump has set a deadline for Ukraine to accept the plan by Thanksgiving, he has also indicated that the proposal is not his 'final offer,' signaling potential flexibility for adjustments. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that his country faces a difficult choice between upholding its sovereign rights and maintaining vital American support, and has requested changes to the plan.