European leaders are rushing to respond to a controversial US peace plan for Ukraine that critics say could give Russia the upper hand, nearly four months after Moscow launched its invasion.
The 28-point design has sparked serious concern in Kyiv and across Europe, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy advising that the plan may force his country to choose between defending its sovereignty and maintaining pivotal American support.
The stakes are high, not just for Ukraine, but for Europe as a whole. EU countries see their own security intertwined with the outgrowth of the Kyiv conflict and are keen to have their voices heard in any accommodations.
European Support for Kyiv Amid US Peace Proposal
On Saturday, European leaders are set to meet in Johannesburg, South Africa, alongside the Group of 20, to bandy druthers
to the US plan.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President António Costa verified the addresses following a call with Zelenskyy. Von der Leyen emphasised the principle guiding Europe’s stance: “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.”
The US proposal would see Ukraine hand over territory to Russia, shrink its army, and halt its path to NATO membership, all measures Kyiv has consistently rejected.
⚡️ Europe’s biggest leaders say any deal on Ukraine must reflect EU and NATO positions, and Ukraine’s army must retain the ability to defend its sovereignty.
That’s what Merz, Macron, Starmer and Zelenskyy agreed in a phone call, according to the German Chancellor’s office.… pic.twitter.com/4iePEY7SpI
— UNITED24 Media (@United24media) November 21, 2025
Numerous European officers worry that the plan glosses over Moscow’s long-standing demands while offering only limited security guarantees for Ukraine.
How the Plan Could Affect Ukraine’s Sovereignty?
For Kyiv, the offer highlights the delicate balancing act of guarding its borders while maintaining Western support. The issue is central to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the broader European security geography.
Rising Tensions on the Ground
The conflict on the battleground shows no signs of decelerating. A Ukrainian drone strike targeted an energy refinery in southern Russia, killing two people and injuring two further, according to local officials.
The attack in the Samara region is the latest in Kyiv’s long-range strikes against Russian oil infrastructure, which Ukraine claims energises the Kremlin’s war trouble.
Russian Defence Response and Local Disruptions
Russian air defences said they shot down 69 Ukrainian drones over Russia and enthralled Crimea, including 15 over the Samara fiefdom.
The strikes temporarily disintegrated at least five Russian airfields and cut electricity to around 3,000 homes in Rylsk, according to Moscow authorities.
Regional Governor Vyacheslav Fedorishchev didn’t give details on the damage or the exact position of the strike, and Ukraine has not reflected on the attack.
What Comes Next for Europe and Ukraine?
As European leaders work to coordinate their response, the focus remains on both supporting Kyiv and ensuring any peace addresses don’t compromise Ukraine’s sovereignty.
The opinions made in the coming days could shape the future of the Kyiv conflict, European security, and the wider Russia-Ukraine war.
With pressures rising and military conduct ongoing, Europe’s part in intervening in the situation and backing Ukraine is more pivotal than ever. The world will be watching as leaders weigh tactfulness against the realities of the battleground.
