Zelenskyy Unveils Tough Peace Blueprint As US-Backed Deal Pushes Russia Toward Ceasefire Talks

International News:  Volodymyr Zelenskyy has presented a new peace framework after weeks of quiet talks with the United States and European partners. This time, Kyiv has reduced the earlier 28-point draft into a sharper 20-point plan. Ukrainian officials say the earlier version felt like forced surrender. The revised plan focuses on sovereignty, security, and recovery. It avoids vague promises and stresses enforcement. Zelenskyy says the goal is real peace, not frozen conflict. The plan was made public on December 23 to build global support.

Why Did Talks With America Matter?

Washington played a central role in reshaping the proposal. The new draft includes strong security guarantees backed by the US, Europe, and NATO. Kyiv believes this support changes the balance of pressure on Russia. Unlike earlier plans, this one clearly defines consequences for violations. Economic cooperation is also part of the deal. Ukraine and the US have drafted a separate roadmap focused on long-term prosperity. Zelenskyy says these documents together form a single peace vision.

How Will Security Be Enforced?

The framework confirms Ukraine as a sovereign state and proposes a full non-aggression pact. A satellite-based monitoring system will watch the front line. Ukraine’s army strength will remain at 800,000 troops in peacetime. If Russia attacks again, coordinated military action and full sanctions will return. If Ukraine attacks without cause, guarantees will be withdrawn. This balance is meant to prevent misuse. Existing bilateral security deals with around 30 countries will continue. Kyiv says this closes past security loopholes.

What Role Does Europe Play?

Europe is expected to be a key signatory and guarantor, though final names are pending. Ukraine will gain a clear path toward European Union membership. Short-term access to European markets is promised to boost recovery. The plan also commits Ukraine to EU rules on minority rights and religious freedom. Education programs will promote cultural understanding between Russians and Ukrainians. Kyiv believes European involvement makes the deal harder to break. It also ties peace with long-term integration.

Can Economy Heal War Damage?

A major part of the plan focuses on rebuilding. Ukraine aims to raise $800 billion to cover war losses. Funds will support housing, cities, and basic services. Investment will target technology, data centers, and artificial intelligence. American companies will help modernize gas pipelines and storage. Infrastructure and natural resource extraction will expand. The World Bank will provide special funding. A global financial expert will oversee recovery as Prosperity Administrator.

Why Are Two Points Still Stuck?

Despite progress, disagreements remain. Control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant is unresolved. The future of war-hit Donbas regions is also unclear. The draft recognizes current military lines as temporary front lines. Russia must withdraw from several occupied regions for the deal to work. International forces will monitor the front. Both sides must follow the Geneva Conventions. These unresolved points may decide the plan’s fate.

Who Oversees Peace And Elections?

Once signed, the agreement becomes legally binding. A peace council chaired by Donald Trump will oversee implementation. Ukraine, Europe, NATO, Russia, and the US will be members. Any violation will trigger penalties. After the deal, Ukraine must hold presidential elections. A ceasefire will begin immediately once all parties agree. Kyiv hopes this structure turns promises into action, not just paperwork.