Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday identified what he described as the “main problem” with the U.S.-drafted peace plan aimed at ending Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. Speaking to the Swedish Parliament, Zelenskyy made it clear that the proposed legal recognition of Russian control over occupied territories in eastern Ukraine remains a major obstacle to negotiations.

“Putin wants legal recognition to what he has stolen, to break the principle of territorial integrity and sovereignty. That is the main problem. You all understand what that means,” Zelenskyy stated.

Weekend Talks in Geneva

Over the weekend, Ukrainian and American officials met in Geneva, Switzerland, to discuss a 28-point proposal that was leaked last week. The U.S.-drafted plan has generated significant debate, with both allies and critics expressing concerns about its potential implications for Ukraine’s sovereignty.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, present during the Geneva talks, described the discussions as “very, very meaningful,” noting progress while stressing that “there’s still some work left to do.” Rubio called the draft a “living, breathing document,” emphasizing that remaining issues are “not insurmountable.”

Finland’s President Alexander Stubb also commented on the talks, noting that while meaningful progress has been made, “major issues remain to be resolved.”

Controversy Over Russian Sovereignty Recognition

One of the most contentious points in the U.S. proposal is the call for Ukraine and the global community to formally recognize some areas controlled by Russian forces as no longer Ukrainian. Zelenskyy has repeatedly rejected this notion, framing it as an attack on Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Ukraine’s Ambassador to the U.S., Olga Stefanishyna, told CBS News that Ukraine had not agreed to all terms in the leaked plan, emphasizing that it “is not about justice and the truth of this war and the aggression,” but rather about ending military engagement.

Russia’s Response

Russia has stated that it has not received official updates regarding the revised plan. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Moscow is monitoring media reports from Geneva but has not received formal communication. While Russia remains open to dialogue, no meetings between Russian and U.S. officials are currently planned.

Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated that the U.S. proposal could serve as a negotiation basis but warned that if Ukraine rejects the plan, Russian forces would continue offensive operations.

Broader Implications for U.S. and European Allies

The 28-point plan has sparked alarm among European allies, with some fearing it may be too favorable to Russia. Ukrainian officials maintain that the plan, in its current form, fails to adequately address accountability for Russian aggression.

President Trump has indicated a flexible Thanksgiving deadline for Zelenskyy to respond, framing it as an opportunity for a deal while leaving room for extension if talks advance positively.

Conflict Continues Amid Negotiations

Despite diplomatic efforts, hostilities on the ground persist. Ukrainian officials reported that four people were killed and 13 injured in an overnight drone attack on Kharkiv, underscoring the ongoing human cost of the conflict as peace negotiations proceed.