Is Ukraine's Proposed Peace Plan a Game Changer?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ukraine's proposed peace plan significantly differs from existing frameworks.
- Negotiation challenges stem from imposed deadlines and disruptive tactics.
- The political will of involved parties is crucial for reaching an agreement.
- President Trump positions himself as a key figure in the negotiations.
- Potential referendum on the peace plan hinges on a ceasefire agreement.
Moscow, Dec 27 (NationPress) The peace resolution framework that Kyiv is reportedly putting forward shows a marked divergence from the proposals being discussed in Moscow and Washington, according to a Russian diplomat. While a settlement seems to be on the horizon, the negotiation process is facing challenges due to imposed deadlines and deliberate attempts to derail discussions, stated Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov during the "60 Minutes" program.
"I predict that December 25, 2025, will be a significant date in our memories, indicating that we genuinely approached a resolution, but whether we can finalize an agreement depends on the political willingness of the other party," the Russian official emphasized.
In reaction to comments made by US Permanent Representative to NATO Matthew Whitaker regarding the prospect of concluding the conflict within 90 days, Ryabkov remarked that setting strict timelines is counterproductive to achieving a peaceful resolution.
A significant breakthrough in negotiations must occur "under circumstances where Kyiv and its allies, especially within the European Union, are more focused on disrupting the process rather than facilitating an agreement," he added.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed on Friday his readiness to present a peace initiative aimed at resolving the Ukraine crisis through a referendum, contingent on Russia agreeing to a ceasefire lasting at least 60 days, as reported by US media outlet Axios.
In a phone interview with Axios, Zelensky mentioned his desire to negotiate a more favorable territorial arrangement. However, should the plan necessitate making a "challenging" decision regarding territory, he believes the best approach would be to submit the comprehensive 20-point proposal for a referendum, according to Xinhua news agency.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida on Sunday, as Kyiv advances with its new 20-point peace initiative aimed at concluding Russia's nearly four-year-long conflict in Ukraine.
The White House announced on Friday (local time) that Trump will meet Zelensky at Palm Beach, Florida, on Sunday, December 28.
Prior to the meeting, Trump positioned himself as the ultimate decider of any potential agreement between Ukraine and Russia, taking a cautious stance on Zelensky's latest proposal.
"Until I give my approval, he doesn't have anything," Trump remarked in an interview with POLITICO.
"So, we will see what he has to offer."