Zelensky Moves Towards Demilitarised Zones in Latest Peace Plan for Ukraine
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has unveiled an updated peace plan that includes significant proposals for demilitarised zones aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia. This comprehensive plan was developed after discussions between US and Ukrainian envoys in Florida.
Key Elements of the Peace Plan
– Security Guarantees: Zelensky emphasized that the 20-point plan provides security assurances that parallel NATO membership, enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
– Troop Withdrawal: The plan provides for a potential withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the eastern regions, to be replaced by officially designated demilitarised zones.
– Response Timeline: The Russians are expected to respond to this peace framework after discussions with American officials on Wednesday.
– Framework for Ending the War: Zelensky described the plan as the main framework for ending the war, proposing a cooperative military response involving the US, NATO, and European allies if Russia violates the agreement again.
– Economic Zones in Donbas: A proposed free economic zone in eastern Donbas was presented as a viable option. Zelensky clarified that any areas vacated by Ukrainian troops would still require Ukrainian oversight and policing.
– Negotiation Stakes: The options laid out included either continuation of the war or a decisive resolution concerning all potential economic zones in the region.
Background Context
– Original Plan Update: This updated framework emerges from a prior 28-point plan negotiated by US envoy Steve Witkoff with Russian officials, which heavily favored Kremlin demands.
– Russian Occupation: Currently, Russia occupies a significant portion of the Donetsk region, demanding that Ukraine withdraw from nearly 25% of its territory as part of any peace agreement.
– Territorial Issues: Zelensky noted that sensitive issues regarding territory would need to be addressed at the leadership level, with ongoing discussions aimed at solidifying Ukraine’s security guarantees—and a projected military strength increase to 800,000 personnel.
– Recent Talks: Discussions have taken place in various locations, including Berlin and Miami, which saw US negotiations with both Russian and Ukrainian officials, providing further elaboration on territorial concerns.
Implementation Challenges
– Russian Response: Despite the detailed proposals, Russian President Vladimir Putin has publicly asserted intentions to control all of eastern Ukraine, casting doubt on the likelihood of acceptance of the current framework.
– US Leverage: Zelensky stressed that it would be difficult for Russia to reject the US-supported plan outright, stating, They cannot tell President Trump, ‘look we’re against a peaceful settlement.’
– Management of Demilitarised Zones: Any economic zone established would necessitate Ukrainian administration, explicitly excluding any form of Russian oversight. International forces may also be deployed along the contact lines to prevent infiltration.
Additional Provisions
– Referendum Requirement: A referendum is necessary to confirm the peace plan, particularly regarding the proposed economic zones in Donbas.
– Nuclear Plant Oversight: The peace plan includes provisions for the management of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, currently under Russian control, proposing joint operations involving Ukraine, the US, and Russia, although Zelensky has expressed reservations about this idea.
– Commitments to Sovereignty: The plan reaffirms Ukraine’s sovereignty, advocating for a non-aggression pact with Russia and a monitoring mechanism to ensure compliance.
– EU Accession: The latest proposals outline a clear path for Ukraine’s future accession to the European Union, alongside the establishment of a substantial investment fund estimated at about $200 billion.
– Elections Post-Deal: Finally, the plan includes stipulations for elections to be conducted promptly after the peace agreement is enacted, despite the challenges posed by the ongoing martial law situation.
In summary, Zelensky’s new peace plan represents a significant step towards establishing demilitarised zones, ensuring security guarantees, and aiming for a stable resolution to the ongoing conflict. The implementation of these proposals is fraught with challenges, primarily due to Russia’s historical demands and ongoing territorial claims. With ongoing discussions and negotiations anticipated, the world watches closely as the situation evolves.