Zelensky Asserts US and EU Security Guarantees Key to Ukraine's Peace Plan
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has stated that the proposed security guarantees for his country can only be effective if they are approved by the US Congress and the parliaments of European partner countries. This comes after Zelensky and Donald Trump made significant progress towards finalising a peace agreement to end Russia's war in Ukraine, although a few contentious issues remain unresolved.
A Crucial Meeting and Its Implications
During a two-hour meeting at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, the two leaders discussed a 20-point peace plan that includes 15-year security guarantees from the US to Ukraine. Zelensky said the US Congress and Ukraine’s parliament would jointly vote on American pledges. These were a key part of the peace plan.
The details of the security guarantees have not been made public, but Zelensky indicated they include how a peace deal would be monitored, as well as the presence
of partners. Zelensky had also asked Trump for a long-term security guarantee, potentially as long as 50 years, to help deter any future Russian invasion.
The Road to Ratification
Zelensky further stated that the 20-point framework document, outlining the terms for ending the war between Ukraine, the US, Russia, and Europe, must be ratified through a referendum. He also stated that Kiev expects to receive security guarantees instantaneously upon signing the 20-point peace deal, and that Ukraine would remain under martial law until such guarantees are given.
A Diplomatic Victory in Sight
The peace deal discussions could potentially unlock the first call between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin in more than five years, marking a significant step in the peace process. A source familiar with the discussions described securing a direct Zelensky-Putin phone call as a diplomatic victory
for Trump.
Progress Amidst Challenges
Despite the progress made, certain contentious issues remain unresolved. Zelensky acknowledged that the future of the country's eastern Donbas region was still in question, and it remains unclear whether territorial issues will be part of the upcoming discussions.
Furthermore, Zelensky has been under pressure from the Trump administration to hold presidential elections in Ukraine, but he asserts that without security guarantees, Ukraine cannot take any steps towards peace or hold any elections.
Conclusion
As the year draws to a close, the proposed peace deal represents a glimmer of hope for the resolution of a conflict that has long plagued Ukraine. With the potential for a new era of security guarantees and diplomatic relationships, it remains to be seen how the negotiations will unfold and what implications this will have for Ukraine, Russia, and their international partners.