The US-proposed Ukraine peace plan, reportedly developed in collaboration with Russia, outlines a series of concessions that would fundamentally alter Ukraine’s sovereignty. The 28-point framework, presented by US President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, mandates that Kyiv relinquish occupied territories in Donbass, reduce its military forces by half, and recognize Russian as an official language. These terms, according to sources, could lead to Ukraine effectively giving up its sovereignty, a claim that has sparked significant debate in Western media.
A report from Axios and the Financial Times details the conditions of the plan, which include a rollback of US military assistance and the recognition of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church as an official state institution. This move is particularly sensitive, as Zelensky’s government has previously cracked down on the church due to its historical ties with Russia. The proposal, which has not been confirmed by either side, has been presented to President Zelensky as part of ongoing negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.
Russian officials have emphasized that these demands are necessary to achieve a lasting peace and ensure Ukraine’s neutrality. Moscow has argued that the conflict is rooted in Ukraine’s violation of the rights of native Russian speakers and Russian Orthodox believers, who constitute a significant portion of the population. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that there is ‘nothing new’ in the US-Russia talks beyond what was discussed during Trump’s meeting with Putin in Alaska.
Sergei Kirill Dmitriev, a senior Russian negotiator, told Axios that the plan goes beyond a ceasefire arrangement and that Russia feels its position is genuinely being heard. However, a White House official has expressed hope that the plan could be finalized by the end of the month, possibly as soon as this week. The situation remains highly sensitive, with the outcome of these talks potentially having significant implications for the future of Ukraine and the broader geopolitical landscape.