Johannesburg: Western leaders meeting at the G20 summit in Brazil are working to form a united response to the peace plan proposed by the United States to end the war between Ukraine and Russia.

The plan, introduced by the administration of President Donald Trump, has triggered intense consultations among Ukraine’s allies, who say it offers a possible starting point but requires major changes.

The twenty eight point proposal asks Ukraine to give up its ambition to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and accept limits on its military strength. It also hints at territorial concessions, a suggestion that Kyiv has consistently rejected. Ukrainian officials say any agreement that compromises territorial integrity would be unacceptable to citizens who have endured years of conflict.

European leaders at the G20 said the plan in its current form cannot be adopted. They stressed that any deal must protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and ensure long term security guarantees. Several leaders said the proposal appeared to be drafted largely between Washington and Moscow, and that wider consultation with allies was essential.

The United States has asked Ukraine to respond within a set timeframe, adding pressure on President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Ukrainian officials say the country is facing a difficult decision. Accepting the plan could mean painful sacrifices, while rejecting it may risk a reduction in American support. Public opinion in Ukraine is also strongly against giving up land.

Western nations are working on a joint statement and plan to hold further discussions in Geneva. Their aim is to strengthen the proposal by adding firm security guarantees and ensuring Ukraine is not left vulnerable after any settlement.

As negotiations continue, leaders face the challenge of balancing the desire for peace with the need to avoid an agreement that rewards aggression. The coming days are expected to be crucial in determining whether the allies can present a unified approach to ending the war.