Discussion with Ukrainian Ambassador Olga Stefanishyna on 'Face the Nation', Nov. 23, 2025

MARGARET BRENNAN: We are pleased to have Ukraine's Ambassador to the U.S., Olga Stefanishyna, with us today on 'Face The Nation'.

AMBASSADOR OLGA STEFANISHYNA: Thank you for having me, Margaret.

MARGARET BRENNAN: It seems to be a pivotal time for Ukraine with a lot of diplomatic activity, especially in Geneva. Your president has stated that Ukraine is at a crossroads between maintaining honor or losing a key partner, the U.S. Has there been any resolution so far?

AMB. STEFANISHYNA: The discussions between Ukraine and U.S. officials, including Secretary Rubio and Secretary Driscoll, continue based on a 28-point peace proposal. European partners are also actively participating, aiming for collaborative efforts. While certain aspects have been openly debated, discussions are still ongoing.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Has Russia shown any willingness to make concessions?

AMB. STEFANISHYNA: The tabled proposal doesn't indicate any Russian concessions. It's recognized as aggressive actions, focusing on hostages and humanitarian concerns rather than justice or righteousness. The aim appears to be ending hostilities rather than ensuring justice.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Does that seem unfair to Ukraine?

AMB. STEFANISHYNA: In essence, this plan doesn't focus on justice. It's a proposed agreement between Ukraine and potentially Russia. We rely heavily on U.S. leadership in these fruitful negotiations, emphasizing the importance of tangible peace.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Has there been any indication that the U.S. would halt military and intelligence aid if President Zelenskyy doesn't accept the proposal by Thursday?

AMB. STEFANISHYNA: Such claims don't do justice to our American partners. We’ve engaged in numerous intense discussions, including a historic visit by Secretary Driscoll. These exchanges were varied in tone, but the U.S. remains committed to helping Ukraine cease hostilities without Russia formally being part of this negotiation.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Reports from the Wall Street Journal suggest there's also a security assurance document. Can you elaborate on this?

AMB. STEFANISHYNA: Indeed, a framework for security assurances exists, though it's not a formal agreement. It outlines the U.S.'s commitment to support in the face of aggression, resembling Article 5 of the NATO Treaty but differing significantly. It addresses threats from Russian aggression, adding complexity due to past events from Belarus.

MARGARET BRENNAN: So you're requesting a definitive pledge that if Ukraine is invaded, America's response would be assured, including protection against Russian proxies?

AMB. STEFANISHYNA: Precisely. Real security assurances are crucial given our past experiences, like giving up nuclear arms under the Budapest Memorandum. Learning from these, we seek strong assurance against aggression.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Some U.S. and European figures suggest Ukraine's military stance, especially near Pokrovsk, is weakening. Is now the time to negotiate?

AMB. STEFANISHYNA: Ukraine, a vast nation, faces over 1,000 weekly combat incidents on its frontlines. Russia's narrative exaggerates the situation in Pokrovsk to influence perspectives especially abroad. It's a significant point, but part of a larger frontline.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Thank you, Ambassador, for your insights today.