Ukraine–US Peace Talks in Switzerland: High‑Stakes Negotiations to End the War

Ukraine and U.S. High‑Level Talks in Switzerland on 22 November 2025: A Pivotal Moment for Peace

On 22 November 2025, Ukraine and the United States initiated high‑level consultations in Switzerland, aiming to negotiate the possible terms of a future peace agreement to end the ongoing war with Russia. Rustem Umerov, Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council, announced the talks via Telegram, expressing gratitude for the U.S.’s participation and its readiness for “substantive dialogue.”

According to Umerov, these consultations will explore the parameters of a peace deal, though precise outcomes remain uncertain. Earlier, Umerov’s announcement mentioned European partners’ participation — a detail later removed from his post without explanation.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has given his approval for a delegation led by top security officials, underlining his commitment not to block peace efforts but also vowing to defend Ukraine’s sovereign interests and the foundations of European security.

At the same time, European leaders are closely watching these developments. On the sidelines of the G20 Summit, G7 and EU officials discussed Washington’s proposed peace plan. Leaders including Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa voiced support for a “just and lasting peace,” stressing that any plan must respect Ukraine’s red lines.

A central point of tension is the controversial 28‑point peace proposal reportedly drafted by U.S. (Trump administration) and Russian negotiators. According to that plan, Ukraine might be asked to cede parts of its territory, limit its military to 600,000 personnel, and forgo future NATO membership.

Zelenskyy, speaking publicly, called this “one of the most difficult moments” in Ukraine’s history. He warned that Kyiv is being forced to choose between losing its dignity or jeopardizing its relationship with the U.S., as well as risking a harsh winter if it rejects the plan.

From Kyiv’s perspective, any agreement must ensure a real and dignified peace, one that does not undermine its independence or constitutional rights. Zelenskyy insists his team will carefully verify the authenticity (“genuineness”) of the proposals with U.S. counterparts.

Internationally, the pressure is mounting. According to reports, U.S. officials are warning that failure to accept the plan may lead to a reduction in military and intelligence support. Meanwhile, EU leaders — including France’s Macron and Germany’s Merz — reaffirmed their support for Ukraine but stressed no deal should be made without Kyiv’s full involvement.

If these talks succeed, they could mark a turning point in the conflict — but the risks remain high. Ukraine must balance its desire for peace with the imperative to preserve sovereignty, while the U.S. and its allies must ensure the deal is acceptable and sustainable. The world now watches Switzerland, hoping that these negotiations will lead not to a forced surrender, but to a just and lasting peace.