Putin Envoy Says U.S. Ukraine Peace Plan Aims to Prevent Further Losses

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s investment envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, has defended the U.S. administration’s proposed plan to end the war in Ukraine, arguing that the initiative is intended to prevent Kyiv from suffering additional territorial losses and casualties. The comments, shared Friday on X, come amid growing debate over reports that Washington’s proposal includes significant concessions from Ukraine.

According to multiple sources cited by Reuters and other media outlets, the peace framework emerged from confidential talks between Dmitriev—who heads Russia’s sovereign wealth fund—and Steve Witkoff, the special envoy appointed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Dmitriev suggested that criticism of the initiative was fueled by “warmongers’ propaganda,” claiming many observers misunderstood the plan’s objective.

He insisted the proposal represents an effort to “save Ukraine from losing even more land and lives,” urging audiences to scrutinize those opposing the plan and consider who benefits from prolonging the war. Dmitriev has traveled frequently to the United States in recent years, engaging with Trump administration officials on geopolitical and economic matters.

The peace plan, presented to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Thursday, reportedly asks Ukraine to make sweeping compromises, including relinquishing large areas currently claimed or occupied by Russian forces and accepting limits on the size of its military. These proposed terms have triggered strong reactions in Kyiv.

Zelenskiy responded Friday by warning that the plan could undermine Ukraine’s dignity, sovereignty, and long-term security, potentially risking not only national freedom but also continued U.S. support. His remarks highlight the deep concerns within Ukraine’s leadership about any agreement that could lock in Russian territorial gains.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha also addressed the situation on X, noting he held a “timely and meaningful” call with top diplomats from France, Britain, Poland, and Finland. Sybiha said he discussed recent communications led by Zelenskiy and reviewed the elements of the U.S. peace proposal. He emphasized that Ukraine and its partners are working to ensure any negotiated path leads to a “just peace,” aligning with Kyiv’s long-standing demands for security guarantees, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

The debate surrounding the U.S. peace plan continues to intensify, shaping international conversations about the future of the conflict and what compromises, if any, Ukraine should be expected to make.