Ukrainian frontline soldiers are expressing strong skepticism about a leaked U.S. peace proposal aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict with Russia. This proposal, which surfaced amidst significant Russian advances on the battlefield, has elicited a blend of defiance, anger, and resignation from the troops.

The BBC has gathered insights from soldiers across Ukraine who reacted to the U.S. draft, which suggests key concessions including territorial losses in the Donbas region and a reduction of Ukraine's armed forces size. During a recent analysis, Yaroslav, a soldier in eastern Ukraine, bluntly stated, It sucks… no one will support it, while another soldier, referencing the original draft, branded it as absolutely disgraceful.\

As discussions continue between American and Ukrainian negotiators to refine these proposals, sentiments remain mixed. Notably, some soldiers like one identified as Snake suggest, it's time to agree at least on something, while others recognize the painful implications of ceding territory.

The latest negotiations also touch upon the size of Ukraine's military, which some believe should be scaled back. With current estimates suggesting over 800,000 soldiers are in uniform, the U.S. plan proposes capping this number at 600,000, a move some soldiers feel could negatively impact Ukraine's capacity for post-war recovery.

Primary concerns include the potential loss of the Donbas region, which Ukraine has fiercely defended since the beginning of the war. Soldiers argue that surrendering territory would undermine their efforts and the lives lost in battle. As Andrii, a general staff officer suggests, although the proposed concessions are painful, Ukraine may lack viable alternatives.

In terms of security guarantees, while the U.S. draft eliminates the prospect of Ukraine joining NATO, it does promise support in the event of future Russian aggression. However, skepticism remains about the effectiveness of these guarantees, with some soldiers expressing a lack of faith in the reliability of U.S. assurances under the current administration.

Additionally, the draft proposes fresh elections within 100 days post-conflict, a contentious point given current unrest within the Ukrainian government over corruption allegations. Some soldiers appear to favor the idea of elections, viewing it as necessary to restore trust in governance.

The overarching message from those in the trenches is one of fatigue and a desperate hope for peace. As one soldier poignantly states, If it stops the war, then it works for me.\