Allies of Ukraine will discuss ways to enhance a US peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing war with Russia. This dialogue will take place during the G20 summit in South Africa, as indicated by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. The summit follows a stark warning from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who stated that Ukraine is facing “one of the most difficult moments in our history” amid growing pressures to accept the plan, some elements of which are seen as favorable to Moscow.
Key Leaders and Discussions
President Zelensky engaged in phone conversations with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and the leaders of France and Germany prior to the summit. Starmer assured that Ukraine’s allies are determined to achieve a “lasting peace once and for all.” Notably, neither US President Donald Trump nor Russian President Vladimir Putin will be attending the summit.
Concerns Over the Peace Plan
- The US peace plan includes proposals Kyiv previously dismissed.
- Washington has been urging Ukraine to consider this plan seriously.
- Some European leaders express apprehension, fearing the terms are heavily skewed towards Russia.
Kaja Kallas, the EU foreign policy chief, emphasized the importance of how the war concludes, asserting that Russia has no legal right to demand concessions from Ukraine. Kallas stated, “the terms of any agreement are for Ukraine to decide.” She warned that adopting the plan could represent a “very dangerous moment.”
Key Provisions of the Peace Plan
The discussions will explore the current proposal’s details, with Starmer noting the importance of supporting Trump’s efforts for peace. He remarked on Ukraine’s ongoing calls for Russia to cease its illegal invasion. Key elements of the US plan include:
- A reduction in the size of Ukraine’s military.
- A commitment from Ukraine not to join NATO, a core demand from Moscow.
Additional Context and Challenges
In recent statements, Trump conveyed that Ukraine risks losing more territory to Russia and that Zelensky would need to approve the presented plan. Trump has set a deadline for Ukraine to agree to the terms, urging quick decision-making. Ukraine’s defense has largely relied on advanced weaponry from the US and intelligence support since the Russian invasion began in 2022.
Putin’s Response
During a meeting with his security cabinet, President Putin acknowledged receipt of the proposed peace plan, describing it as a potential basis for a settlement, while also indicating Russia’s readiness to continue fighting. He mentioned that discussions on the fine details had not yet occurred within the Kremlin.
Future Steps and Considerations
In a public address, Zelensky warned about the pressure on Ukraine to accept unfavorable terms, emphasizing the need for unity among allies. The US has refuted claims that Ukraine was excluded from drafting the proposal, stating the plan was developed following discussions with Ukrainian security officials.
The leaked draft suggests a withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from parts of the eastern Donetsk region and acknowledges Russian control over Donetsk, Luhansk, and Crimea. Additionally, it proposes certain security guarantees for Ukraine and hints at the eventual reintegration of Russia into the global economy, contingent on lifted sanctions and an invitation to rejoin the G7.
