Zelensky Proposes Referendum on Territorial Concessions to Russia Ahead of Trump Meeting
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in an interview with the American news outlet Axios, expressed hope that his upcoming meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday could establish a framework to end the ongoing war. Zelensky stated that if Russia agrees to a ceasefire lasting at least 60 days, he is prepared to put Ukraine‘s peace plan to a national referendum.
The Ukrainian leader emphasized his willingness to seek a better position on territorial disputes but acknowledged that if the peace plan requires a “very difficult” decision, a referendum on the entire 20-point proposal may be the best path forward. Zelensky clarified that the objective of Sunday’s meeting with Trump is to set a clear, time-bound framework for ending the conflict.
“We want to conclude this as quickly as possible, which is why we aim to negotiate at the presidential level,” Zelensky added.
In a separate interview with the New York Post, President Trump expressed optimism about the prospects of successful peace talks, stating, “I think there’s a good chance for success. I’ve resolved eight wars, and this is the toughest one. I believe we can end this war too.”
Zelensky unveiled his 20-point peace plan with Russia on December 24, 2025, which maintains Ukraine’s stance on not retreating from Donbas and retaining the right to an 800,000-strong military. However, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov noted that Zelensky’s proposal fundamentally differs from the 27-point plan Russia has been discussing with American counterparts since early December.
