Zelensky's aide fears Kremlin won’t talk without major concessions, 'war won’t end on Kyiv’s terms'

As Trump’s team pushes for peace, Ukraine faces mounting battlefield losses and growing pressure from both Moscow and international actors. Former Ukrainian Armed Forces chief Valeriy Zaluzhny warned that a rapid resolution is unlikely, with the most probable scenario being a multi-year freeze. He stressed that the Kremlin will not agree to peace without Ukraine’s defeat or major concessions. Zaluzhny added that wars rarely end with one clear winner, noting that peace—even when temporary—can create opportunities for political reform, economic growth, and citizen return. This came as Trump unveiled a 28-point peace plan, reportedly recognizing Russia’s control over occupied territories and drafted without Ukraine or EU input, raising concerns over forced concessions. In response, the European Union proposed a counterplan more acceptable to Kyiv. Moscow confirmed receiving a revised strategy after emergency Geneva talks, highlighting that high-stakes negotiations continue with uncertain outcomes.