After extensive discussions, Ukraine and the U.S. have developed a new peace plan aimed at ending Russia’s ongoing war. Originally a lengthy 28-point draft, the plan has been streamlined to 20 points. President Volodymyr Zelensky shared it with reporters on December 23.
Included in this revised framework is a three-party security agreement involving Ukraine, the U.S., and Europe. There’s also a bilateral security agreement specifically between Ukraine and the U.S., which outlines plans for economic cooperation. Zelensky highlighted that they are nearing completion of these documents.
The U.S. is expected to present the updated draft to Moscow on December 24. For the agreement to take effect, it must be ratified by the Ukrainian parliament or supported in a potential referendum within 60 days.
However, some key issues remain unresolved. Ukraine and the U.S. are still negotiating control over the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant and the Donbas region, both crucial to Ukraine’s security. The revised plan does not address Ukraine’s NATO membership aspirations.
Key Points of the Peace Plan
- Sovereignty Acknowledgment: The agreement reaffirms Ukraine’s status as a sovereign nation.
- Non-Aggression Pact: It establishes a non-aggression agreement with mechanisms for monitoring compliance.
- Security Guarantees: Ukraine will receive security guarantees, likening them to Article 5 of NATO.
- Military Size: Ukraine’s Armed Forces will maintain a personnel level of 800,000.
- International Response: In the event of an invasion, a coordinated military response will be executed, reinstating global sanctions on Russia.
Expert Insights: According to political analysts, this peace framework shows more flexibility compared to previous drafts, which may help in gaining wider acceptance. Dr. Anna Schaffer, a conflict resolution expert, emphasized that a successful agreement could stabilize not just Ukraine but also influence security dynamics across Europe.
Broader Context
Historically, peace agreements in conflict zones often stumble over territorial disputes and security guarantees. For instance, the 1998 Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland faced similar hurdles before eventual acceptance led to significant long-term peace.
Current Public Sentiment
The conflict has sparked considerable debate on social media. Many Ukrainians express hope that a viable peace plan will end the turmoil, while some remain skeptical about Russia’s intentions. Recent polls show that about 70% of Ukrainians favor negotiations, but doubts linger about Russia’s commitment to peace.
Final Steps
Under the new proposal, various economic initiatives are set to boost Ukraine’s recovery, addressing critical industries affected by the war. The aim is to raise up to $800 billion to repair war damage.
The peace agreement’s success hinges on mutual trust and ongoing dialogue between all parties involved. As discussions continue, the world watches closely to see if this framework can lay the groundwork for lasting peace.
