In a bold move that could reshape the trajectory of the Ukraine war, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has unveiled a revised peace plan that puts the onus squarely on Russian President Vladimir Putin. The crux of the proposal? The creation of demilitarized zones in eastern Ukraine, a potential "least problematic solution" to the territorial dispute that has stalled negotiations.
Putting the Ball in Putin's Court
Zelenskyy's latest plan, developed in consultation with U.S. negotiators, represents a significant shift from Ukraine's previous hard-line stance. The Ukrainian leader has now signaled a willingness to withdraw troops from parts of the Donetsk region, currently not under Russian control, in exchange for the establishment of these demilitarized zones. As Politico reports, Zelenskyy described this as "the most difficult point" in the negotiations, but one that could pave the way for a breakthrough.
What this really means is that Zelenskyy is essentially daring Putin to accept this compromise. By taking the first step and offering concessions on the thorny issue of territorial control, the Ukrainian president is putting the onus on the Kremlin to reciprocate with its own gestures of goodwill. As NBC News notes, Russia has continued to assert "maximalist demands" that Ukraine relinquish the remaining Donetsk territory it holds, an ultimatum Kyiv has so far rejected.
Security Guarantees and Economic Incentives
Zelenskyy's peace plan goes beyond just the territorial question, however. It also outlines a framework for robust security guarantees from the U.S., NATO, and European partners, akin to the protections afforded by Article 5 of the NATO treaty. According to the BBC, these guarantees would include a coordinated military response if Russia were to invade Ukraine again.
The plan also proposes the transformation of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions into "free economic zones," potentially offering Russia economic incentives to agree to a deal. The bigger picture here is that Zelenskyy is trying to craft a compromise that not only addresses security concerns but also holds the promise of economic benefits for all parties involved.
As the world watches with bated breath, the ball is now firmly in Putin's court. Zelenskyy has made a bold gambit, effectively daring the Russian leader to seize this opportunity for a negotiated settlement. The fate of the Ukraine war may well hinge on how Putin chooses to respond.