Newly surfaced documents have exposed major differences between the United States, Ukraine, and European allies over a proposed peace framework aimed at ending Russia’s war in Ukraine. Texts from meetings held in Paris on April 17 and London on April 23, obtained by Reuters, highlight the tough diplomatic challenges facing President Donald Trump’s administration as it seeks a quick resolution to the conflict.
The documents show that key disputes center on the fate of occupied territories, sanctions on Russia, and Ukraine’s future security arrangements. Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, presented a U.S. proposal in Paris calling for formal recognition of Russia’s control over Crimea and de facto acceptance of Russian-occupied territories in southern and eastern Ukraine. In contrast, a counterproposal developed by European and Ukrainian officials in London defers territorial discussions until after a ceasefire and refuses to acknowledge Russian claims.
On security guarantees, the U.S. plan promises “robust” protections for Ukraine but bars Kyiv from joining NATO. The Ukrainian-European counterproposal is more assertive, seeking NATO-style defense assurances and allowing foreign forces to be stationed in Ukraine a red line for Moscow.
Economic terms also differ sharply. The U.S. framework suggests lifting sanctions imposed since 2014 as part of the deal, while Ukraine and Europe propose easing sanctions only after achieving sustainable peace, with the option to reimpose them if Russia violates terms. Furthermore, the European-Ukrainian text demands financial compensation for war damages, funded through seized Russian assets abroad.
The urgency from Washington has caused unease among European diplomats, who fear being rushed into a premature agreement. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called the London talks “constructive” but acknowledged the difficulties. Meanwhile, Trump has publicly stated that Crimea “will stay with Russia,” further straining negotiations.
As Witkoff met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow this week, both Kyiv and Moscow are under pressure to demonstrate progress. However, with major gaps still unresolved, a final deal remains elusive and the risk of a rushed, imbalanced agreement looms large.
