Agency- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has agreed to a revised 20-point peace plan prepared by the United States aimed at ending the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war, while underscoring that territorial control remains a highly sensitive issue that must be discussed directly at the leadership level with former US President Donald Trump.
According to a report by The New York Times, the United States has been holding parallel discussions with both Ukraine and Russia in an effort to broker a ceasefire and broader peace agreement. The talks have been led by Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, with involvement from Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Trump had earlier claimed that a peace agreement would be reached before Christmas. However, negotiations stalled amid disagreements over land control and security arrangements.
Territorial Dispute Remains Key Obstacle
One of the most contentious issues remains control over eastern Ukraine, particularly the Donetsk region. Russia has demanded that Ukrainian troops withdraw from areas it claims to have annexed, while Ukraine maintains that parts of the region remain outside Russian control.
Trump has reportedly floated the idea of turning disputed areas into a free economic zone. Ukraine has shown openness to this proposal, though Moscow has yet to offer a clear response.
Zelensky, speaking at a press conference cited by The New York Times, confirmed that Ukraine has accepted the revised 20-point proposal, which differs significantly from an earlier 28-point plan drafted by Trump last month. That earlier proposal had drawn criticism for provisions seen as favoring Russia, including pressure on Ukraine to cede territory, reduce its military strength, and abandon aspirations for NATO membership.
Revised Plan Favourable to Ukraine
Following concerns expressed by European allies, the peace proposal was revised. Zelensky said the updated version better reflects Ukraine’s security and sovereignty concerns.
Under the new framework:
Ukraine would maintain a standing army of 800,000 troops, even during peacetime.
The costs of maintaining the force would be covered by Western partner countries.
Strong security guarantees would be provided through bilateral agreements with the United States and European nations.
The plan includes mechanisms to monitor ceasefire violations and outlines a clear response strategy in the event of renewed Russian aggression.
“It will include peace monitoring mechanisms and a concrete plan on how to respond if Russia attacks again,” Zelensky was quoted as saying.
Security Guarantees and EU Membership
Security assurances under the proposal include:
A bilateral security agreement with the United States
Approval of security commitments by the US Congress
Continued military assistance—air, land, and maritime—from European partners
Several European countries have signaled readiness to deploy troops in Ukraine as part of post-war security arrangements, although Russia has strongly opposed the presence of foreign forces on Ukrainian soil.
The plan also reiterates Ukraine’s path toward European Union membership. Zelensky has expressed his desire to include a specific timeline for EU accession in the peace agreement, though it remains uncertain whether the EU will agree to a fixed date.
Post-War Reconstruction and US Economic Interests
The 20-point proposal places significant emphasis on post-war reconstruction. It includes the establishment of a Ukraine Development Fund, aimed at mobilizing up to 800 billion US dollars for rehabilitation and rebuilding.
According to the plan:
American and Ukrainian companies would jointly invest in key sectors, including energy, technology, data centers, and artificial intelligence.
World-class financial institutions would be entrusted with managing reconstruction funds.
Mining of Ukraine’s minerals and natural resources, a priority for the Trump administration, is also included in the framework.
Nuclear Plant and Demilitarized Zones Unresolved
Another unresolved issue is the future of the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant, Europe’s largest, which is currently under Russian military control. Ukraine has proposed establishing a free economic zone around the facility, but no agreement has been reached.
The plan also explores the possibility of a demilitarized zone or monitored contact line to prevent ceasefire violations.
Zelensky confirmed that the revised proposal will now be formally sent to Moscow for consideration.
“If all sectors are included and we agree to maintain the current situation, an agreement is possible,” Zelensky said. “If not, the war may continue or economic decisions may have to be taken.”
Leadership-Level Talks Sought
Zelensky emphasized that territorial issues are too sensitive to be resolved at lower diplomatic levels and must be discussed directly with Trump.
“We are ready to discuss sensitive issues at the leadership level,” he said. “Territorial questions should be resolved by leaders.”
As diplomatic efforts intensify, the question of land control remains the final and most difficult hurdle in the path toward a negotiated end to the war.
