Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has shared details of an updated peace plan, offering Russia the potential withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the east and the creation of a demilitarized zone in their place.
The demilitarization—one of 20 points agreed upon with U.S. officials—would offer Ukraine security guarantees that mirror NATO membership. This comes as Russia continues to insist that Ukraine withdraw from nearly a quarter of its own territory in the eastern Donetsk region as a condition for any peace deal.
Providing details on the 20-point plan finalized by U.S. and Ukrainian envoys in Florida over the weekend, Zelensky stated that the Russians are expected to respond on Wednesday, following consultations with American mediators.
Zelensky, who described the plan as “the main framework for ending the war” in Ukraine, said it proposes security guarantees from the U.S., NATO, and European allies to ensure a coordinated military response should Russia invade again.
On the critical issue of Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region, Zelensky suggested that a “free economic zone” remains a potential option.
“There are two options,” Zelensky said, adding that “either the war continues, or something will have to be decided regarding all potential economic zones.”
The new draft would provide Ukraine with robust security guarantees and a maintained military strength of 800,000 personnel, Zelensky explained.
