According to the latest reports from Western media, particularly the Financial Times, Russian President Vladimir Putin has once again rejected a peace settlement proposal developed by the United States, Ukraine, and their European partners
This news casts doubt on the seriousness of intentions to consider diplomatic steps that could help bring an end to the conflict, which has been unfolding on Ukrainian territory for over a year. Sources familiar with the situation indicate that this 22-point peace plan was discussed and officially rejected by the Russian side, notably during a meeting with Stephen Vitkoff, the special envoy of former U.S. President Donald Trump. According to accounts, Russian high-ranking officials explicitly refused during a phone call with Vitkoff, raising additional questions about the possibility of a diplomatic resolution to the current conflict. Equally important is the information that, on the eve, the plan was actively discussed in telephone conversations between Ukrainian leaders, U.S. representatives, and other participants in international diplomacy. It is worth noting that these negotiations involved not only Ukrainian government officials—such as Government Advisor Andriy Yermak and Security Advisor Rustem Umerov—but also American politicians and experts, including Senator Marco Rubio. Also participating in the discussions was former official and key diplomat in this situation, Stephen Vitkoff, as well as General Keith Kellogg, former NATO Commander in Europe. Additionally, sources report that the Russian reaction was so negative that Vitkoff, who has met with Putin at least four times since February, was forced to temporarily postpone plans for a subsequent meeting with the Kremlin leader, scheduled for the near future. Meanwhile, one individual close to Vitkoff emphasizes that the planned trip is currently not finalized and may be adjusted or canceled altogether, depending on the development of diplomatic events. From a historical perspective, it is important to recall that the recent visit of a Ukrainian delegation to Kyiv on May 10 marked a new stage in diplomatic efforts. During this visit, the coalition of “decisive” leaders demanded that Russia implement an unconditional ceasefire within 30 days starting from May 12. They emphasized that if Russia refuses, they are prepared to apply a new set of sanctions, considering the efforts of international partners, particularly the U.S. and the European Union, and noted that these measures would be coordinated and synchronized among participating countries. Prior to this, Ukrainian representatives engaged in a joint phone call with former President Trump, indicating an increase in diplomatic pressure and a desire to find a way to resolve the crisis through political and diplomatic means. Overall, the situation remains tense and ambiguous. Putin’s refusal to consider proposals from the U.S. and Ukraine, as well as his negative reaction to new initiatives, suggest that political resolution of the conflict is currently not a top priority for the Kremlin. This casts doubt on the possibility of a quick peace and calls for the international community to take further diplomatic and political steps to seek a compromise and maintain global stability.