Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has unveiled an updated 20‑point peace plan that he described as “the main framework for ending the war.” The plan, agreed with U.S. negotiators during talks in Florida over the weekend, offers Russia the potential withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the east — a demand Moscow has consistently pressed for. Zelensky confirmed that Russia is expected to respond on Wednesday after consultations with American officials.
At the heart of the proposal is a freeze of the current front line, halting further advances by either side. The plan envisions the creation of demilitarised zones in contested areas, reducing the risk of renewed fighting. Zelensky emphasized that the framework also includes security guarantees from the U.S., NATO, and European partners, ensuring a coordinated military response if Russia attempts another invasion.
On the sensitive issue of Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region, Zelensky floated the idea of establishing a “free economic zone” as a potential alternative to permanent military confrontation. This would allow the area to function as a hub for trade and investment, rather than a battleground, while leaving sovereignty questions open for future negotiation.
The peace plan reflects a pragmatic shift in Kyiv’s strategy. While Ukraine continues to insist on its territorial integrity, the proposal acknowledges the need for compromise to stop the war’s devastation. By offering troop withdrawals and economic alternatives, Zelensky is signaling flexibility without abandoning Ukraine’s long‑term sovereignty claims.
Internationally, the plan has been welcomed as a serious attempt to break the stalemate. Western allies see the inclusion of NATO and EU security guarantees as critical to deterring future Russian aggression. Analysts note that this framework could form the basis of a broader settlement, though its success depends heavily on Moscow’s response.
Challenges remain. Russia has yet to formally react, but Kremlin officials have hinted they are “formulating their position.” Moscow’s insistence on full Ukrainian withdrawal from the east remains a sticking point, and any agreement that freezes the front line risks cementing Russian control over occupied territories.
Domestically, Zelensky faces political risks. Some Ukrainians may view demilitarised zones and troop withdrawals as concessions that weaken national defense. Balancing public opinion with the urgent need for peace will be a delicate task for his administration.
The proposal also underscores the importance of economic reconstruction. By suggesting a free economic zone in Donbas, Zelensky is highlighting the potential for trade and investment to replace conflict. This approach could attract international support and funding, particularly if tied to broader recovery efforts across Ukraine.
In conclusion, Zelensky’s updated peace plan marks a significant step toward negotiation. By combining military compromises with economic innovation and international guarantees, it offers a framework that could reshape the trajectory of the war. Whether it succeeds will depend on Russia’s willingness to engage and the credibility of Western commitments, but for now, it represents Ukraine’s boldest move yet toward ending the conflict.
