The conflict in Ukraine has entered one of its most critical periods as President Donald Trump imposed a swift deadline for Kyiv to accept a controversial US-backed peace proposal. Trump stated in a radio interview on Friday that Thanksgiving, which falls on the upcoming Thursday, is an "appropriate time" for Ukraine to agree to the deal, intensifying pressure on President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

In a stark address to the nation, Zelenskyy warned that his country is facing "one of the most difficult moments in history." He summarized the dilemma facing Ukraine as a choice between "losing a major partner [the US] or Ukraine’s dignity," given that the 28-point US plan reportedly requires Ukraine to concede territory to Russia.

The US proposal, which has been described by some officials as dramatically skewed toward Moscow’s demands, seeks to bring an immediate end to the conflict. Reports suggest that the US has threatened to withdraw critical intelligence sharing and other support should Ukraine fail to sign the hastily prepared deal.

Zelenskyy stressed that he would not betray Ukraine’s national interest, but he has been careful not to reject the plan outright. Following a phone call with US Vice-President JD Vance, Zelenskyy said Ukraine agreed to work with the United States and Europe at an advisor level to constructively amend the deal, ensuring it provides a "real and dignified peace" and prevents Russia from claiming Kyiv does not want resolution.