Philadelphia’s Ukrainian Community Protests Controversial Peace Plan

On November 23, 2025, members of Philadelphia’s Ukrainian American community gathered outside the Ukrainian American Citizens’ Association in North Philadelphia to protest a proposed peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This 28-point plan, reportedly developed in collaboration between Washington and Moscow, has drawn significant criticism for its perceived concessions to Russia, which many view as unacceptable.

Demonstrators waved Ukrainian flags and held signs denouncing the plan, with slogans such as “Appeasement Isn’t Peace.” Rally attendees expressed their disappointment and anger towards what they termed a “copy-and-paste” of Russian demands, which include calls for Ukraine to cede territory, reduce its military forces, and abandon its aspirations for NATO membership. These terms have been firmly rejected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the past.

Ulana Mazurkevich, president of the Ukrainian American Citizens’ Association, articulated the sentiments of many protestors, stating, “Nobody in their right mind would ask a country to give up its territory, its military, its freedoms.” The proposed peace plan has raised alarms about forcing Ukraine into a difficult position, where it might have to choose between maintaining its sovereignty and preserving its alliance with the United States.

The rally’s co-organizer, Mary Kalyna, highlighted the human cost of the conflict, saying, “We will rebuild but it won’t be the same, and I just feel such pain and anger at how much they have taken from us over and over again. It’s not just dirt; there are people there.” Kalyna emphasized that the plan feels like a reward for Russian aggression, asserting, “We cannot stand for it.”

The proposed plan grants Russia almost no concessions, significantly weakening Ukraine, while offering only international security guarantees and reconstruction assistance in return. Protestors voiced concerns that the plan includes provisions that could shield Russian officials and soldiers from prosecution for war crimes. One participant, Eugene Luciw, expressed outrage, stating, “The rapists, the murderers, the genocidal maniacs … are all supposed to be forgiven — absolutely no prosecutions.”

As the event progressed, attendees joined in singing the Ukrainian national anthem, reinforcing their national pride and solidarity. The rally not only served as a platform for protest but also as a reaffirmation of the community’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence.

The peace plan has sparked a broader debate about the implications of U.S. foreign policy in Eastern Europe, with many fearing that concessions to Russia could undermine long-standing alliances and international law. As discussions continue regarding the future of Ukraine, the resilience of communities like Philadelphia’s Ukrainian Americans shows their unwavering support for their homeland in the face of external pressures.