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President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed a 20-point peace framework that offers the creation of a demilitarized zone in the contested eastern territories.
The updated proposal, finalized with top US envoys, suggests establishing a "free economic zone" in the Donetsk region. Zelensky described the document as "the main framework for ending the war," noting that American officials are presenting the terms to Russia for a response by Wednesday. The plan hinges on a significant compromise regarding the land.
If Ukrainian forces withdraw heavy weaponry by five to 40 kilometers to create this economic zone, Russian troops must mirror the retreat. This new buffer region would be policed by Ukraine or international forces, ruling out any "Russian police" presence.
"There are two options," he said. "Either the war continues, or something will have to be decided regarding all potential economic zones." The proposal appeals to President Trump's administration, framing the territorial issue through business potential. Zelensky issued a stark warning about Moscow's refusal.
"They cannot tell President Trump, 'look we're against a peaceful settlement,'" Zelensky said. "If they try to obstruct everything, then President Trump would have to arm us heavily, while imposing all possible sanctions against them." Beyond territory, the blueprint demands security guarantees.
The plan calls for a Ukrainian army of 800,000 troops, backed by commitments from the US, NATO, and Europe to respond to any future aggression. It also proposes a joint US-Ukraine venture to manage the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, rejecting Moscow's demand for energy trade. While acknowledging that territorial concessions would require a national referendum, Zelensky expressed hope that the economic angle could break the deadlock. Russian President Vladimir Putin has demanded full control of Donetsk, making the "free economic zone" a hard sell.
Nevertheless, Zelensky believes diplomatic pressure is unavoidable. "We have come significantly closer to finalizing the documents," he stated, challenging the Kremlin to accept the terms or face a newly weaponized Ukraine.
