Ukraine defiant on U.S. pressure as Trump accuses Zelensky of boasting

washingtonpost.comPublished: 4/23/2025

Summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has insisted on a full ceasefire, thwarting U.S. efforts to gain concessions as President Trump accuses him of boasting after claiming Kyiv won't recognize Crimea. The U.S., last week, proposed leaving Russia with 20% of its occupied land and not recognizing NATO membership for Ukraine but faced resistance from Zelensky. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance warned the U.S. might walk away from a peace process if progress isn't made soon. European officials had to cancel talks in London after U.S. officials pulled out due to disagreements with Trump and Zelensky. The situation remains volatile as ongoing Russian attacks on civilians escalate tensions.