By John Q. Hosedrinker 
President Zelensky has unveiled a revised 20-point peace plan, which is currently under discussion with the US. This revised plan, a reduction from the original 28 points, includes provisions like a cap on Ukraine’s peacetime forces while dropping others. The 20-point plan is one of four documents in development, alongside agreements for security guarantees and economic recovery. While progress has been made, several provisions remain unacceptable, and a durable ceasefire is not yet in sight.
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Zelensky Unveils Revised 20-Point Peace Plan, a plan that appears to be a bold move, and it’s certainly generating a lot of buzz. The main focus is on achieving a lasting peace between Ukraine and Russia, addressing a wide range of issues from territorial integrity to security guarantees, and even future economic development. It sounds ambitious, to say the least.
Confirmation of Ukraine’s sovereignty is naturally a core element. This foundational point sets the stage for everything else, clearly stating that Ukraine’s borders and its right to exist as an independent nation are non-negotiable. Building on that, the plan includes a non-aggression agreement between Russia and Ukraine, with monitoring along the contact line. This is aimed at preventing further hostilities and creating a stable environment for future discussions. A peacetime cap on the Ukrainian military to 800,000 personnel is also listed.
Then come the big guns. Security guarantees are a major component. The plan proposes that the US, NATO, and Europe would provide these guarantees based on NATO’s Article 5 mutual defense clause. Basically, any new Russian aggression would be met with a military response and renewed sanctions. Furthermore, Russia would enshrine a non-aggression policy towards Europe and Ukraine in all its laws. It’s a comprehensive approach, aiming to shield Ukraine from future attacks.
The plan also touches on Ukraine’s future. It envisions eventual EU membership, with plans to fix an accession date. A global development package, potentially worth a staggering $800 billion, would be determined in a separate investment agreement. This suggests an intention to rebuild Ukraine and integrate it into the global economy. Additional funds will be created for recovery issues. Acceleration of the free trade agreement between Ukraine and the US is planned as well.
The plan clearly stresses Ukraine’s nuclear-free status. However, there are some really tricky details. For instance, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is mentioned, with the US offering a trilateral arrangement involving the US as the chief manager, while Kyiv suggests splitting control 50/50 between the US and Ukraine. There’s also the controversial issue of territories. Several options are laid out, which include Russia withdrawing from some areas, but ultimately, it proposes a free economic zone. But it may require a referendum, and the whole document being put up to a vote.
Beyond these core elements, the plan covers other key areas. Both Russia and Ukraine would agree not to change the agreements by force. Russia would also not prevent Ukraine from using the Dnieper River and the Black Sea for commercial purposes. There’s a proposal for an all-for-all prisoner exchange, and the return of civilians, children, and political prisoners. Importantly, Ukraine would hold elections soon after the agreement is signed.
The legal framework is also being addressed. This agreement will be legally binding. A particularly interesting aspect is the proposal to have its implementation monitored by a Peace Council headed by US President Donald Trump. Once all parties agree, a full ceasefire will come into effect immediately. It’s hard not to notice the role assigned to President Trump.
It’s fair to say that some people are skeptical. Many believe that Russia won’t accept these terms, and there’s a good chance that’s true. It’s also worth noting the criticisms leveled at the plan. Some see it as too lenient on Russia, while others question the practicality of the proposals. There are concerns about the influence of the United States and the potential for Trump to side with Russia. Some worry that the promise of Trump’s involvement is just a political move. And with Trump in charge of the Peace Council, you have to wonder about the long-term viability of the deal.
There’s no doubt that this peace plan is a complex and controversial undertaking. The success of this 20-point plan hinges on the willingness of all parties to compromise. Given the current political climate and the conflicting goals of Russia and Ukraine, it is difficult to see how this plan will lead to a lasting peace. One thing’s for sure: it’s a critical moment in this ongoing conflict.