Voices from the Frontline: Ukrainian Soldiers Weigh in on US Peace Plan

Mon Nov 24 2025 20:16:34 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Ukrainian soldiers express deep skepticism towards a draft US peace proposal amidst ongoing conflicts, debating issues of territory, military size, and security guarantees.

As US negotiators work on adjustments to a recently leaked peace plan, frontline Ukrainian soldiers reveal their mixed emotions about the proposals. Many express anger and defiance regarding suggestions to relinquish territory and reduce their military strength, while others see the necessity of finding common ground to end the conflict. The uncertainty surrounding security guarantees from the US and potential foreign support adds to the complexity of the soldiers’ sentiments as they grapple with ongoing war fatigue and calls for fresh elections.

Ukrainian soldiers stationed at the frontlines have voiced their reactions to a draft US peace proposal, showcasing a mix of defiance, anger, and resignation. The thoughts of these soldiers were collected through social media and email by BBC journalists.

As discussions continue regarding this 'peace framework', soldiers like Yaroslav have criticized the proposals, stating it 'sucks' and that 'no one will support it'. Meanwhile, an army medic known as Shtutser refers to the draft as 'absolutely disgraceful' and unworthy of consideration. However, some, like a soldier identified as Snake, believe that it's time to at least reach some agreement.

Giving Up Territory

The US draft suggests that Ukraine should concede the entire Donbas region, a critical area that has been fiercely defended for nearly four years. Witnessing ongoing Russian advances, soldiers are confronted with the harsh realities of battlefield losses. Soldier Snake mentioned, 'Let them take it... We're not fighting for the people but for the land, while losing more people.' Despite the pain of proposed concessions, some like officer Andrii acknowledge that Ukraine may have limited choices.

Limiting Ukraine's Armed Forces

Contemplating the proposed cuts to Ukraine's military, which would reduce its strength to 600,000 from more than 800,000, soldiers exhibit concerns about the practicality of such measures and implications for national security after the war. The army medic Shtutser insists that the army forms the crucial barrier against defeat, labeling the reduction as 'absurd and manipulative.'

Security Guarantees

The draft proposal suggests Ukraine will not gain NATO membership but offers US security guarantees if attacked, a concept that raises more questions than it answers. Drone operator Yevhen welcomed the idea of direct foreign military support, identifying it as an essential reassurance. However, soldiers like Andrii question the viability of European security initiatives, expressing disbelief in their effectiveness.

Calls for Fresh Elections

The plan also proposes fresh elections within 100 days after the war's conclusion, amid rising dissatisfaction with the current government facing allegations of corruption. Some soldiers endorse this notion, expressing the need for a government that will earn the credibility they seek while the uncertainty of the peace proposals clasp their everyday reality.

Overall, many soldiers express a strong desire to see an end to fighting, indicating that while they have reservations about aspects of the peace plan, any proposal that could potentially lead to peace deserves consideration.