Zelensky to deliver peace counterproposal within hours as tensions rise in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said a counterproposal to the peace plan will be submitted in the coming hours, following talks with Pope Leone and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The announcement comes as U.S. President Donald Trump presses for an agreement to be reached before Christmas.

Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine is ready to hold elections within three months, provided that nationwide security can be guaranteed. Responding to Trump’s latest criticism of Europe — whom he called “weak” and “unable to act” — the Ukrainian president dismissed allegations that Kyiv is “using the war to avoid elections,” saying security remains the only barrier to holding a vote.

Under mounting U.S. pressure, Zelensky also underscored the need to strengthen Ukraine’s military capacity and improve the autonomy of its defense industry. As part of this effort, Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha announced that Ukraine and Italy, together with defense company Leonardo, plan to jointly produce drones. The initiative aims to raise Ukraine’s domestic drone output from 40% to 50% of military needs, with the possibility of partial production being relocated to Italy. Sybiha described it as part of a broader “deterrence package” discussed during Zelensky’s visit to Rome.

Meanwhile, regional authorities reported that Russia launched an overnight attack on the Odesa region, damaging infrastructure facilities. According to local governor Oleh Kiper, Ukrainian air defenses intercepted most incoming targets, but one strike hit an infrastructure site, sparking a small fire in a nearby warehouse. No casualties were reported, and critical services continue to operate normally.

In parallel, Kremlin-linked official Kirill Dmitriev praised Trump, claiming that the U.S. president had “prevented World War III” and asserting that Russia now holds a “stronger negotiating position” than Ukraine — remarks that echo Moscow’s current diplomatic stance.