Key Facts
• On December 23, Zelensky outlined a 20-point peace plan to end the war.
• The plan simplifies a prior 28-point proposal discussed by the U.S. and Russia.
• Zelensky is open to withdrawing Ukrainian forces from parts of Donetsk not controlled by Russia.
• Proposed a demilitarized zone with distances of 5, 10, or 40 kilometers.
• Ukraine suggests creating a free economic zone in Kramatorsk and Sloviansk.
• Zelensky demands reciprocal Russian troop withdrawals from equivalent areas.
• The plan includes NATO-style security guarantees for Ukraine.
• U.S. companies may invest in Ukraine’s gas sector and AI development.
• Estimated war-related economic losses for Ukraine: $800 billion.
• Proposal for joint U.S.-Ukraine operation of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant.
• Calls for Russian withdrawal from four Ukrainian regions: Dnipropetrovsk, Mykolaiv, Sumy, and Kharkiv.
• Peace agreement to be legally binding, monitored by a council chaired by Donald Trump.
• Immediate ceasefire upon agreement by all parties.
• Zelensky suggests a nationwide referendum to finalize the peace deal, requiring a 60-day ceasefire.
• Russia’s response to the proposal is expected on December 24.
Summary
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a 20-point peace plan to address key issues stalling negotiations with Russia. The plan includes concessions such as Ukrainian troop withdrawals from parts of Donetsk and the establishment of a demilitarized zone. Zelensky also outlined NATO-style security guarantees, economic recovery initiatives, and joint management of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. He emphasized the need for reciprocal Russian troop withdrawals and proposed a nationwide referendum to finalize the agreement. The plan, which simplifies a prior U.S.-Russia proposal, aims for an immediate ceasefire upon agreement. Russia’s response is anticipated on December 24.
