Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed a new readiness to consider concessions in negotiations with Russia, revitalizing discussions aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. In a candid press meeting, Zelensky shared details of a 20-point plan that he described as pivotal in achieving peace, framing it as a political foundation for collaboration among Ukraine, the United States, Europe, and Russia.
The Ukrainian president indicated that he anticipates a response from Moscow following discussions between U.S. officials and the Kremlin. This latest draft represents a streamlined version of an earlier 28-point proposal that had been under consideration. Among the significant elements of the proposal, Zelensky suggested a compromise regarding the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from certain areas in the Donetsk region, which are currently not under Russian control.
Specifically, Zelensky mentioned the need for mutual troop withdrawals and the establishment of a demilitarized zone around strategic cities, such as Kramatorsk and Sloviansk. He highlighted that any advance in negotiations would require Russia to pull back its military forces in accordance with the areas ceded by Ukraine, emphasizing the proposal for a designated economic zone that would also limit military presence.
The key aspects outlined in the draft plan include a reinforcement of Ukraine’s sovereignty, non-aggression accords, and security guarantees from the U.S., NATO, and European allies, mirroring the protective measures of NATO’s Article 5. This framework would stipulate military responses and reinstatement of sanctions against Russia if it escalates aggression, with provisions for the cessation of guarantees should Ukraine initiate any attacks.
Zelensky also proposed economic recovery initiatives following the war, including the establishment of a Ukraine Development Fund aimed at technological investments. The draft anticipates substantial financial support, addressing an estimated $800 billion in economic losses incurred from the conflict.
Regarding the contentious operation of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, currently under Russian control, Zelensky proposed a cooperative management structure with the U.S., allowing for divided electricity distribution.
The plan also includes provisions for withdrawing Russian military forces from several Ukrainian regions and a legally binding peace agreement, monitored by an oversight council, with a proposed immediate ceasefire following agreement from all parties. Zelensky mentioned the possibility of a nationwide referendum to legitimize the peace terms, emphasizing the necessity of security and fair voting conditions for such a process to be credible.
Russia’s response to these proposals is being keenly awaited, as the peace negotiations continue to unfold. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Moscow is assessing the results of recent discussions and will outline its strategy soon. The ongoing dialogues signify a crucial juncture in a conflict that has drawn significant global attention, with hopes for a substantive resolution resting on the success of these negotiations. As both sides navigate the complex landscape of peace talks, the path forward remains uncertain, yet the recent willingness to compromise may signal a turning point in the quest for stability in the region.