Zelensky Open to Nationwide Referendum on U.S.-Backed Peace Plan If Russia Agrees to 60-Day Ceasefire

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on December 26, 2025, that he is prepared to submit a proposed peace framework—largely aligned with the United States—to a nationwide referendum, provided Russia commits to a ceasefire lasting at least 60 days to ensure a secure and legitimate voting process.

In an interview with Axios, Zelensky emphasized the logistical and security challenges of holding a plebiscite amid ongoing hostilities, noting that "the people will see the missiles" if attacks continue. He described a 60-day ceasefire as the "minimum" required for preparation and voting, arguing that anything shorter would undermine the referendum's legitimacy.

The comments come as Zelensky prepares for a high-level meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday at Mar-a-Lago to finalize details of the plan. Most elements of bilateral U.S.-Ukraine agreements have been codified, though territorial issues remain contentious.

A Ukrainian official also indicated that Zelensky, Trump, and several European leaders are expected to hold a conference call on Saturday to align on the latest developments in the negotiations.

Russian officials have reportedly acknowledged the need for a ceasefire to facilitate a referendum but may push for a shorter duration than Ukraine's proposed 60 days. Moscow's full response to the framework is still pending.

The evolving peace proposal, refined from an earlier 28-point draft, includes provisions for security guarantees, demilitarized zones, and potential economic arrangements in disputed areas, with any territorial concessions requiring public approval via referendum.

Tags (comma delimited): Ukraine, Russia, Zelensky, Trump, peace plan, referendum, ceasefire, 60-day ceasefire, Putin, U.S.-Ukraine talks, Mar-a-Lago meeting, European leaders, Axios

Excerpt: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced he is ready to hold a nationwide referendum on a U.S.-backed peace plan to end the war with Russia, but only if Moscow agrees to a ceasefire of at least 60 days to allow for secure preparations and voting.

Focus key phrase: Zelensky referendum ceasefire peace plan

Slug: zelensky-referendum-trump-peace-plan-ceasefire

Meta description: Ukrainian President Zelensky says he will put U.S.-backed peace plan to nationwide referendum if Russia agrees to 60-day ceasefire; Trump meeting set for Sunday amid talks with European leaders. (152 characters)