Ukraine: Western leaders evaluate draft US plan: "A starting point, but changes are needed for a sustainable peace."

A joint statement signed by key world leaders—from European Council President Costa to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and the heads of government of the United Kingdom, Italy, France, Germany, Spain, the Nordic countries, and Japan—relaunches the debate on the future of the war in Ukraine and the new peace plan proposed by the United States.

The document, released in the last few hours, confirms Western support for the American diplomatic initiative, but also highlights a series of critical issues that must be addressed if the negotiation process is to become truly viable.

A 28-point plan: Appreciated, but more work needed

Leaders recognize the importance of U.S. efforts:

“We welcome the continued efforts of the United States to bring peace to Ukraine.”

The draft plan—28 points outlining a possible framework for a future agreement—is considered by the allies to be a "foundation" on which to build. However, the text emphasizes that further development will be necessary to ensure a stable and credible peace over time.

The central point is respect for the territorial integrity of Ukraine, which is firmly reiterated:

“Borders must not be changed by force.”

This position directly addresses public concerns raised by rumors that the plan could involve territorial concessions.

The proposed limitations on the Ukrainian armed forces are worrying.

One of the most critical points concerns the military aspect. European leaders say they are "concerned" about the hypothesized limitations on Kyiv's defense capabilities.

According to the statement, such constraints would risk:

• weaken Ukraine's security,
• expose her to new risks in the event of future attacks,
• compromise the very stability of the peace plan.

A lasting peace, they emphasize, cannot result from a mere freezing of the conflict, but from conditions that guarantee the autonomy and self-defense of the Ukrainian state.

EU and NATO: any decision will require the consensus of the members

Another topic touched upon was the role of international institutions.

Leaders remember that:

• any commitments concerning the European Union will have to be approved by its member states,
• The same applies to aspects involving NATO, such as security, military guarantees and membership.

A passage that seems intended to clarify that the United States cannot—nor does it intend to—unilaterally decide Europe's future security arrangements.

Reaffirmed full support for Ukraine

The statement concludes with an unequivocal political message:

“We underline the strength of our continued support for Ukraine.”

The leaders confirm their will to:

• continue with economic, military and political aid,
• coordinate closely with Kyiv and Washington in the coming days,
• continue on the path of Euro-Atlantic unity.

A position that responds both to international pressure and to growing expectations for a possible diplomatic breakthrough in 2025.

A strong political signal: Europe and its allies are not backing down.

The joint declaration represents one of the moments of greatest unity within the international community in recent months. Western leaders, while open to discussion of a US draft, are determined not to accept compromises that could:

• legitimize Russian aggression,
• undermine the security of the continent,
• or turn a ceasefire into a frozen conflict destined to reignite.

Europe, they say, "must choose the future it wants to build," avoiding hasty solutions and favoring a peace founded on international law.