Zelenskyy Proposes Peace Plan, Hints at Eastern Ukraine Withdrawal – POLITICO
The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has unveiled a revised peace plan aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict with Russia. This latest version incorporates elements from a proposal initially put forward during the Trump administration, which had previously been dismissed by both Kyiv and the European Union. The updated plan emphasizes strong security guarantees and calls for cooperation on several fronts.
Zelenskyy’s Peace Plan Overview
The new peace plan outlines several critical aspects regarding Ukraine’s defense and future relations with Russia. Key highlights include:
- Security Guarantees: The plan proposes security assurances akin to Article 5 of NATO’s treaty, which commits allies to a collective defense.
- Response to Invasion: If Russia invades Ukraine, the plan states that global sanctions against Russia will be reimposed in addition to military support.
- Non-Aggression Strategy: Russia would need to adopt a legally binding strategy of non-aggression towards Ukraine and Europe.
- EU Accession: The proposal supports Ukraine’s aspiration to join the European Union and demands reparations from Russia.
- Investment for Reconstruction: The plan includes provisions for dedicated investment instruments to aid in the rebuilding of Ukraine.
- Joint Management of Nuclear Facilities: It suggests shared oversight of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant among Ukrainian, Russian, and American authorities.
Demilitarization and Educational Reforms
Zelenskyy also mentioned the city of Enerhodar, currently occupied by Russian forces, as a potential site for demilitarization. However, he emphasized that any such decision would require a legal referendum to validate it. Further, the revised plan encourages both Ukraine and Russia to introduce educational programs fostering cultural tolerance.
To strengthen minority rights, Kyiv would be tasked with implementing EU regulations pertaining to the protection of minority languages and religions. Zelenskyy’s peace plan represents a significant attempt to navigate the complexities of an ongoing conflict while fostering cooperation and security in the region.
