Canada and key world leaders say Trump’s Ukraine peace plan needs major revisions, warning it could endanger Kyiv as Zelenskyy faces mounting pressure.
Canada, Allies Push Back on Trump’s Ukraine Proposal
Leaders Meet Amid Rising Tensions
Prime Minister Mark Carney joined more than a dozen world leaders in Johannesburg on Saturday, gathering on the sidelines of the G20 summit as concerns mounted over Ukraine’s worsening battlefield and political challenges. The meeting followed President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s stark warning that the country faces “one of the most difficult moments in its history.”
Concerns Over Plan’s Core Terms
The leaders issued a joint declaration urging revisions to U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed peace plan, which Kyiv must accept or reject by Nov. 27. The statement emphasized that borders “must not be changed by force” and expressed alarm at provisions limiting the size of Ukraine’s armed forces — a measure seen as leaving Kyiv vulnerable to future aggression.
Details of the U.S. Proposal
Trump’s 28-point proposal would require Kyiv to cede territory, abandon NATO aspirations, and accept strict military caps — long-standing demands from Moscow. A draft viewed by journalists indicates the plan also calls for partial Russian withdrawals from occupied areas, a detail that could complicate Moscow’s response.
Zelenskyy Warns of Dire Choices
In a national address on Friday, Zelenskyy described “intense pressure” from Washington to accept terms that Kyiv views as deeply unfavorable. He said Ukraine faces a stark decision between “the loss of dignity” and jeopardizing its relationship with a key ally.
Canada and Partners Call for Sustainable Peace
Countries present — including Canada, the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Finland, Spain, and EU institutions — said they remain committed to a settlement that protects Ukraine’s sovereignty and long-term security. Carney held bilateral talks with leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron to underscore the need for a “just and lasting peace” shaped with Ukraine’s full participation.
Media Access Restricted at G20
South Africa’s tight control over media at the summit prevented foreign news crews, including Canadian outlets, from filming bilateral sessions. The restriction is considered highly unusual for a global gathering of this scale.
Mixed International Reactions to Trump’s Plan
Trump, who is boycotting the G20, defended his proposal Friday, saying Zelenskyy would “have to like it.” In Moscow, Vladimir Putin said the plan could form a basis for future talks, claiming Russia is prepared to show “flexibility.”
U.K. Counters Moscow’s Claims
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized Russia’s posture ahead of Saturday’s working sessions, saying Moscow’s actions contradict its statements on peace. He highlighted ongoing drone and missile attacks, including more than 1,000 drones and 50 guided missiles used against Ukrainian cities in recent weeks.
G20 Continues Without U.S. Participation
With Trump absent and no U.S. officials attending, the summit moved forward as South Africa released its leaders’ declaration reaffirming that all states must act within international law. The U.S. president has repeatedly criticized the host nation, renewing disputed claims about the persecution of white farmers.
