The prospect of finally bringing an end to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has become a real possibility, thanks to a newly unveiled 20-point peace plan introduced during negotiations led by the United States. But here's where it gets controversial… this plan, which could potentially reshape the future of this long-standing war, hinges on complex agreements and international cooperation that many might find surprising.
On Wednesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky disclosed details of a fresh proposal, backed by the US, aimed at halting the hostilities that have persisted since February 2022. According to Zelensky, negotiators from Kyiv and Washington have reached a consensus on the core elements of the plan, which is now awaiting Moscow’s response.
While Zelensky did not release the actual draft document to the public, he outlined each key point during a briefing, providing insight into what is on the negotiating table. Reports from AFP confirmed that the plan includes not only the main peace framework but also additional bilateral agreements between the US and Ukraine covering security guarantees and future reconstruction efforts.
Here are some of the most critical points from Zelensky’s description of the proposed agreement, captured in a precise translation of his briefing:
The 20-Point Peace Plan for Ukraine and Russia
Ukraine’s sovereignty will be officially recognized and reaffirmed by all signatories through their signatures, emphasizing Ukraine's status as an independent state.
A non-aggression pledge will be established between Russia and Ukraine, supported by a monitoring system using space-based unmanned surveillance to ensure compliance, early conflict detection, and conflict resolution.
Security guarantees will be provided to Ukraine to bolster its defense capabilities.
The Ukrainian armed forces will maintain a peacetime strength of 800,000 personnel.
The US, NATO, and European countries will offer security guarantees similar to NATO's Article 5, which commits members to collective defense:
- If Russia invades Ukraine, all global sanctions against Russia will be reinstated.
- Conversely, if Ukraine acts aggressively towards Russia without provocation, these guarantees will be nullified, but they will activate if Russia attacks Ukraine.
- Bilateral security arrangements are also considered.
Russia will commit to a policy of non-aggression towards Europe and Ukraine through appropriate legislation.
Ukraine intends to join the European Union within a defined period, gaining immediate access to certain European markets.
A comprehensive development package will be implemented, involving the creation of a Ukraine Development Fund and cooperation with US entities for economic revival, infrastructure modernization, resource extraction, and post-war reconstruction, backed by funding from international financial bodies like the World Bank.
Several funds will be set up, including a $200 billion capital and grants fund contributed by the US and Europe, aimed at transparency and effective investment for rebuilding Ukraine’s economy and infrastructure, with Ukraine retaining the right to seek compensation for damages.
The process to establish a free trade agreement with the United States will be accelerated.
Ukraine will reaffirm its commitment to remain a non-nuclear state under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.
The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant will be jointly operated by Ukraine, the US, and Russia.
Educational and societal programs will promote tolerance and understanding, with Ukraine adopting EU rules on religious tolerance and minority protections.
The current front-line positions in several regions will be recognized as de facto contact lines, with plans to redeploy forces, establish potential economic zones, and deploy international monitoring forces, contingent on Russian troop withdrawal from certain regions.
Future territorial arrangements, once agreed upon, must not be forcibly changed.
Russia agrees not to interfere with Ukraine’s use of the Dnipro River and Black Sea for commerce.
A humanitarian committee will facilitate prisoner exchanges, including combatants and civilians, ensuring the return of children, political prisoners, and detainees, aside from addressing broader relief efforts.
Ukraine commits to holding elections promptly after the agreement is ratified.
This treaty will be legally binding, with its implementation overseen by a Peace Council chaired by former US President Donald Trump, including representatives from Ukraine, Europe, NATO, Russia, and the US, with sanctions imposed on violations.
All parties agree that once the deal is ratified, a full ceasefire will be immediately enacted.
Furthermore, Moscow has been briefed on US engagement with Russia regarding these proposals, and Russia is currently preparing its official response. Former US President Donald Trump, who claims a role in brokering peace “for major global conflicts,” has repeatedly noted the difficulty of ending the Ukraine war but remains hopeful.
And this is the part most people miss… While these negotiations seem promising, many experts question the feasibility of such comprehensive agreements, especially given the historical mistrust and ongoing hostilities. Is this peace plan set to succeed, or will it become another diplomatic illusion? Share your thoughts—do you believe this proposed framework could finally deliver lasting peace, or is it destined for failure? Let us know your viewpoint in the comments.
