The 28-point ‘peace plan’ for Ukraine may be dead – but Trump still won’t stop Putin | Dmytro Kuleba
In a recent commentary, Dmytro Kuleba, the former foreign minister of Ukraine, emphasizes the urgent need for unity among Kyiv and European nations to thwart Russia’s aggressive territorial ambitions. The article reflects on a moment of cautious optimism following the U.S. announcement of a new 28-point plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. During talks in Geneva, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted “substantial progress,” suggesting a potential diplomatic breakthrough. However, this hopeful atmosphere was abruptly shattered by a renewed wave of violence from Russia, as President Vladimir Putin launched a massive missile and drone assault on Kyiv that same evening. This stark contrast underscores the precarious nature of the situation, where diplomatic efforts can quickly be overshadowed by military aggression.
Kuleba’s analysis captures the duality of the current geopolitical landscape, where daylight brings discussions of peace and collaboration, yet darkness reveals the harsh reality of warfare. He points out that while significant energy is devoted to managing international relations and countering political figures like Donald Trump, Putin remains resolute in his belief that warfare is the most effective means to achieve his objectives. The article serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle Ukraine faces, not only in defending its sovereignty but also in rallying support from its European allies. Kuleba’s call to action stresses that a united front is essential to prevent further Russian encroachment, highlighting the importance of solidarity and strategic cooperation among European nations in the face of such aggression. As the situation continues to evolve, the resilience and determination of Ukraine, alongside its allies, will be crucial in shaping the future of the region.
Kyiv and the rest of Europe must stand together to prevent Russia from seizing more territory by force
Dmytro Kuleba is a former foreign minister of Ukraine
Europe breathed a deep collective sigh of relief on Monday, as the crisis triggered by Washington’s presentation of a new 28-point plan for ending the war appeared – briefly – to have been stabilised. Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, spoke of “
substantial progress
” after Ukraine-US talks in Geneva. On Monday night, Vladimir Putin made his countermove:
another massive barrage
of missile and drone strikes on Kyiv.
The sequence of contrasting events captured the grim essence of the outgoing year. By day, diplomatic battles are fought: hopeful statements are issued from Washington, London, Brussels and Kyiv. Immense energy is expended on containing Donald Trump’s initiatives. By night, Putin brutally reminds the world that, for him, war remains the primary tool for achieving “peace”.
Dmytro Kuleba was Ukraine’s minister of foreign affairs from 2020 to 2024
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