Ukraine allies give cautious welcome to ‘modified’ peace framework

The U.S. has drafted a controversial peace plan for Ukraine that reportedly favors Russian interests, causing tensions among the U.S., Ukraine, and European nations. This plan, influenced by a Kremlin confidant, includes provisions that may require Ukraine to make significant territorial concessions, raising concerns about its implications for Ukrainian sovereignty.

President Trump announced plans to visit China in April and host Chinese President Xi Jinping later next year, following a discussion that focused on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and U.S. agricultural exports, particularly soybeans.

Ukrainian officials have expressed concerns following recent peace talks in Geneva, warning that U.S. proposals may compel Kyiv to make unacceptable concessions to Russia. President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine is at a critical juncture, facing pressure to accept terms that could undermine its sovereignty.

President Donald Trump has ordered the blacklisting of certain branches of the Muslim Brotherhood, designating them as terrorist organizations due to their alleged support for Hamas and activities against U.S. interests. This decision follows an executive order that delegates the responsibility to key officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Negotiators for a peace plan regarding Ukraine have left the most contentious issues, particularly concerning territory claimed by the Kremlin but not occupied by Russian forces, to be resolved by former President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky. This decision reflects the complexity of the ongoing conflict and the challenges in reaching a consensus on territorial integrity.

President Trump described a recent phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping as 'very good,' emphasizing discussions on trade, particularly soybeans, and the sensitive issue of Taiwan. This conversation follows a meeting in South Korea last month aimed at easing tensions between the two nations.

Ukraine has made significant amendments to the US-proposed peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia, removing some of the more extreme demands initially included. This development comes amid ongoing negotiations and a potential meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former US President Donald Trump, as European leaders express skepticism about the speed of reaching a deal.

President Trump held a cordial meeting with New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani in the Oval Office, surprising many who expected a contentious encounter given their previous political tensions. This meeting marked a significant shift in their relationship, focusing on collaborative efforts to address key issues facing the city.