Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has publicly unveiled a detailed 20-point peace plan, marking a significant step toward resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia. The BBC’s Russian Service says the document, developed over recent weeks through collaboration between Ukraine, the United States, and European countries, includes various provisions aimed at securing Ukraine’s sovereignty and rebuilding the country. However, Zelensky noted that disagreements remain on two key points of the plan, particularly concerning the Donetsk region and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP).
Key points of the 20-point peace plan
1. Confirmation of Ukraine’s Sovereignty: The plan reaffirms Ukraine as a sovereign state, with all signatories acknowledging this status.
2. Non-Aggression Agreement: A mechanism will be created for monitoring the front line, including through space-based drone surveillance, to ensure a non-aggression pact between Russia and Ukraine.
3. Security Guarantees for Ukraine: The plan provides robust security guarantees for Ukraine, ensuring its defense against future threats.
4. Ukrainian Armed Forces Size: Ukraine's military will maintain a force of 800,000 personnel in peacetime, which includes the National Guard, National Police, Border Service, and intelligence agencies.
5. NATO-style Security Guarantees: The U.S., NATO, and European countries will provide Ukraine with security guarantees similar to Article 5 of the NATO charter. This includes sanctions on Russia in case of further aggression, while Ukraine would lose these guarantees if it attacks Russian territory.
6. Russian Legislation on Non-Aggression: Russia will be required to enshrine non-aggression towards Europe and Ukraine in its national legislation.
7. EU Membership for Ukraine: Ukraine will join the European Union, with a short-term privileged access to the European market. The EU membership process is projected for 2027 or 2028.
8. Global Development Package: A separate agreement on investment will outline a global development package for Ukraine.
9. Compensation for Russian Aggression: Ukraine will receive real compensation for the damages caused by Russian aggression, with a goal of raising $800 billion for reconstruction through various funds.
10. Free Trade Agreement with the U.S.: Ukraine will accelerate negotiations for a free trade agreement with the United States, which is expected to lead to gradual sanctions relief for Russia once the war ends.
11. Non-Nuclear State: Ukraine will reaffirm its commitment to remaining a non-nuclear state under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.
12. Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant: The management of the Zaporizhzhia plant is one of the unresolved issues. While the U.S. proposes joint control by the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia, Zelensky rejected this as unrealistic. A compromise could involve a joint enterprise between the U.S. and Ukraine, with 50% of the energy output going to Ukraine.
13. Cultural and Educational Programs: Both Russia and Ukraine will introduce educational programs in schools to promote understanding and tolerance, eliminate racism, and protect minority languages.
14. Territorial Disputes: The most contentious issue remains the status of territories, particularly in Donetsk. Ukraine insists on a ceasefire based on the current frontline positions, rejecting any territorial changes. The U.S. proposed creating a demilitarized or free economic zone in Donetsk, but this would require a referendum.
15. No Use of Force for Territorial Changes: Once territorial agreements are made, neither Russia nor Ukraine will change these arrangements by force.
16. Access to the Dnipro River and Black Sea: Ukraine will retain the right to use the Dnipro River and the Black Sea for commercial activities, with a separate maritime agreement and the demilitarization of Kinburn Spit.
17. Humanitarian Committee for Prisoners and Civilian Detainees: A committee will be established to address issues related to prisoners of war, civilian detainees, and victims of the conflict.
18. Ukrainian Elections: Presidential elections will be held within 60-90 days of the ceasefire. Parliamentary and local elections will follow once martial law is lifted.
19. Monitoring by the Peace Council: A global peace council, chaired by President Trump, will oversee the implementation of the agreement. The council will include representatives from Ukraine, Europe, NATO, Russia, and the U.S., with sanctions for non-compliance.
20. Immediate Ceasefire: Upon agreement, a full ceasefire will take effect immediately.
Remaining disagreements
While most of the 20 points have been agreed upon, Zelensky noted ongoing disputes over the status of the Donetsk region and the management of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. The U.S. suggests joint control of the ZNPP, but Ukraine is unwilling to engage in any joint ventures with Russia.
Zelensky plans to continue discussions with U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump, to resolve these contentious issues.
