Path to Peace: Tense Negotiations Over Ukraine's Future

European officials presented peace proposals for Ukraine to the U.S. as President Trump prepared talks with Russia's Putin. Proposals involve potential territorial swaps, sparking debate over Ukraine's sovereignty. European leaders emphasize including Ukraine in the peace process, while skepticism over the implementation and impact on Ukraine remains high.

In a significant diplomatic development, European leaders have proposed their own peace plan for Ukraine, presenting it to the U.S. ahead of key discussions between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. These initiatives aim to put an end to the ongoing conflict, which has ravaged Ukraine's eastern regions for over three years.

The proposed peace deal reportedly includes territorial swaps, an element that has stirred substantial controversy. Many European nations and Ukraine staunchly reject ceding land to Russian control, fearing it would embolden further aggression. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy reaffirmed this stance, emphasizing that any negotiation must prioritize Ukraine's sovereignty and include the nation in its peace process.

The peace talks come amid ongoing military conflict along a substantial front line in Ukraine's eastern and southern territories, with Russian forces controlling roughly a fifth of the territory. Despite current efforts, there remains considerable skepticism regarding the feasibility of a lasting peace agreement, with analysts highlighting the potential adverse consequences for Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)