NATO and allies boost readiness as peace talks stall over Ukraine’s resistance to U.S.-brokered plan.

European and UK officials, backed by NATO, are stepping up military readiness as peace talks on Ukraine continue, warning that a U.S.-brokered plan could leave room for Russian exploitation. Western officials fear a proposed demilitarized zone in Donbas could be penetrated by covert forces or false flag operations, allowing Moscow to undermine any settlement. While the U.S. has floated ideas such as special administration and referendums, Ukraine has rejected territorial concessions and is demanding firm security guarantees, including NATO-style protections. European leaders caution that any deal must prevent Russia from turning peace into a strategic trap, with major uncertainties still unresolved over oversight of demilitarized areas and Russia’s control of Crimea and parts of Donbas.