European leaders rejected the current U.S. proposal to end the Russia–Ukraine war, considering it “a basis” for negotiations but still requiring “additional work.”

Their statement from the Johannesburg meeting said the 28-point draft includes important elements but offers wide concessions to Russia, including limiting the size of the Ukrainian army and preventing Kyiv from joining NATO.

Leaders warned the proposal could leave Ukraine vulnerable to future attacks, reaffirming the principle of not allowing borders to be changed by force.