Trump Signals Flexibility on Ukraine Proposal, Sets Thanksgiving Deadline Amid Zelensky’s Reservations

In a pointed exchange with reporters on Saturday, US President Donald Trump clarified that his comprehensive 28-point blueprint for resolving the Ukraine conflict does not represent his ultimate position to Kyiv. The plan, which includes territorial concessions by Ukraine, a reduction in its military forces, and a commitment to forgo NATO membership, aims to halt the protracted war that Russia initiated in February 2022.

Trump emphasized urgency, stating, “We’re trying to get it ended. One way or the other, we have to get it ended.” He reiterated that the proposal remains open to negotiation, responding affirmatively when pressed on whether it constituted a “final offer to Ukraine” by simply saying, “No.”

The remarks came as Trump outlined a timeline for decision-making, designating November 27—coinciding with the American Thanksgiving holiday—as a suitable target date for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to endorse the terms. “He’ll have to like it, and if he doesn’t like it, then you know, they should just keep fighting,” Trump added, underscoring the stakes. “At some point he’s going to have to accept something.” While presented as a benchmark, Trump suggested the deadline could accommodate adjustments.

Zelensky, for his part, has adopted a measured stance toward the initiative, expressing intent to counter with his own options rather than immediate acceptance. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has voiced openness to engaging on the proposal’s specifics, though he warned that rejection by Kyiv would compel Moscow to intensify its military campaign.

Diplomatic momentum is building ahead of key meetings. On Sunday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, are slated to touch down in Geneva for substantive talks on the framework, according to a US official who spoke to AFP. European representatives are also anticipated to join the Swiss discussions, signaling broader international involvement.

Trump’s intervention underscores his administration’s determination to broker an end to the conflict, which has exacted a heavy toll since Russia’s full-scale invasion over two and a half years ago. As negotiations loom, the coming days could prove pivotal in bridging divides or exposing irreconcilable gaps between the warring parties and their allies.