Ukraine under pressure: Trump sets deadline for peace plan as Zelenskiy vows to defend the nation’s dignity.

KYIV, Nov 21 — Ukraine is facing one of the toughest moments of the war as U.S. President Donald Trump urges Kyiv to accept a peace plan that includes major concessions to Russia. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy warned on Friday that the proposal could force Ukraine to choose between losing its dignity or risking the loss of crucial U.S. support.

Trump told Fox News Radio that next Thursday was his deadline for Ukraine to accept the 28-point U.S. plan, which calls for Kyiv to give up territory, limit its military, and drop its ambition to join NATO.

In a rare outdoor address, Zelenskiy urged unity, saying he would “never betray Ukraine” and that he would fight to protect “the dignity and freedom of Ukrainians.”

According to sources, the U.S. had warned Ukraine it could lose intelligence sharing and weapons support if it rejects the plan — a claim a senior U.S. official later disputed.

Zelenskiy has spoken with leaders from Britain, France, Germany, and U.S. Vice President JD Vance to explore alternatives. Ukraine and its European allies are now drafting a counter-proposal.

European leaders expressed concern, saying the U.S. plan favors Russia heavily and could destabilize Ukraine. The Kremlin has urged Kyiv to make what it calls a “responsible decision.”

The U.S. plan includes major concessions to Russia, such as Ukraine withdrawing from eastern regions claimed by Moscow, while Russia gives up smaller areas elsewhere. Ukraine would be permanently barred from joining NATO, and sanctions on Moscow would be gradually lifted.

Trump said new U.S. sanctions on Russian oil will go into full effect Friday and will remain until the plan is implemented.

(Reuters)