Tensions are rising as former U.S. President Donald Trump unleashes a scathing attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for rejecting a contentious peace plan purported to be Trump’s ‘final offer’ to resolve the conflict with Russia.

On Wednesday, amid failed diplomatic efforts, Trump's administration issued a warning: he may abandon peace talks if both Russia and Ukraine refuse to agree to his terms. The discord was palpable when a planned summit in London, featuring key allies, was abruptly downgraded, coinciding with Zelensky’s dismissal of the leaked proposal.

The crux of Zelensky’s objections lies in a controversial clause that would require the U.S. to recognize Russia's annexation of Crimea, a move deemed illegal by international standards. Trump took to his Truth Social platform, denouncing Zelensky’s stance as detrimental to peace negotiations: Crimea was lost years ago and is not even a point of discussion, he stated, suggesting that if Zelensky truly wanted Crimea, he should have fought for it when it was seized without resistance eleven years prior.

Trump's critique wasn't just limited to the peace plan; he characterized Ukraine's situation as increasingly dire. According to him, Zelensky faces a choice: pursue peace or continue fighting, risking complete loss of Ukraine.

Vice President JD Vance also urged immediate action from both sides during a visit to India, stressing that the U.S. has presented a 'very explicit proposal' that they should either accept or reject. Vance suggested freezing territorial lines where they stand today—implying territorial concessions from both Ukraine and Russia to reach a resolution.

Sources have revealed that the controversial one-page peace proposal would allow Russia to maintain control over 20% of Ukraine, including Crimea, while also enforcing a promise that Ukraine would never join NATO—one of Russia's key demands. In addition, sanctions imposed on Russia since 2014 would be lifted, bringing fresh concerns regarding Moscow’s potential to regroup and launch further attacks.

Zelensky's government reacted coolly to the proposal, asserting that no president could legally agree to territorial concessions as it violates Ukraine's constitution. This is our territory, the territory of the people of Ukraine, he stated emphatically.

As Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal arrived in Washington for discussions on rebuilding efforts, both sides seem to remain at an impasse. While Zelensky insists on a ceasefire to pave the way for negotiations, the situation on the ground remains volatile, with reports of continued clashes.

Despite the turbulence, Ukrainian officials have reiterated their commitment to seeking peace, yet skepticism remains high regarding the perceived fairness of any proposed deals. Will Trump’s peace efforts transform, or is this just another phase in a deepening conflict? The world watches closely as the stakes continue to rise.