When project constraints conflict, the project manager should escalate and facilitate a discussion between key stakeholders. In this case, regulatory review is mandatory and outside of project control, so the realistic timeline must be clarified. If alignment cannot be achieved, it should be registered as a major risk and escalated appropriately.

PMI emphasizes stakeholder collaboration and risk management as critical practices in such situations. Aligning all stakeholders on realistic constraints supports both risk mitigation and strategic decision-making.

Option A bypasses the CEO.

Option B dismisses SME input.

Option D could introduce unnecessary risk if done without regulatory clearance.