Post by : Badri Ariffin

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed his readiness to remove Ukrainian forces from the eastern industrial region of Donbas as part of an initiative to conclude the ongoing conflict with Russia, contingent upon Moscow's withdrawal and the establishment of a demilitarized zone supervised by international bodies.

In a recent press conference, Zelenskyy outlined this proposal as part of an evolving diplomatic strategy that has been under discussion between Ukrainian and U.S. representatives. While several details are still to be finalized, he indicated that this plan attempts to break the ongoing stalemate regarding Donbas, a central point of contention in the negotiations since the onset of the conflict.

Zelenskyy remarked, “The issue of Donbas is our greatest challenge,” recognizing the long-standing sensitivities surrounding control, security, and governance in the region.

Free Economic Zone Concept and International Oversight

The proposal envisions transforming Donbas into a demilitarized “free economic zone,” a concept attributed to U.S. origins. This would enable a reduction in military presence along with international oversight aimed at ensuring compliance and averting renewed hostilities.

Yet, Zelenskyy cautioned that several critical questions remain, notably regarding the extent of troop withdrawals, the positioning of international forces, and the governance and economic development of the zone. He mentioned that these decisions necessitate high-level political dialogue and ultimately require public endorsement.

Any potential peace agreement would be subjected to a national referendum in Ukraine, according to Zelenskyy.

No Indication of Russian Withdrawal

As of now, Russia has shown no willingness to concede any of the territories it has occupied since the beginning of the invasion nearly four years ago. Moscow persists in insisting on Ukrainian cession of the remaining territories under its control in Donbas, a demand consistently rejected by Kyiv.

Currently, Russian forces occupy a majority of Luhansk and approximately 70% of Donetsk, which are part of the Donbas region.

On inquiries regarding recent proposals, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia would assess its stance following reports from presidential envoy Kirill Dmitriev, who recently engaged with U.S. officials in Florida during the weekend. Peskov did not provide additional specifics.

U.S. Involvement and Evolving Diplomacy

American diplomats have been conducting separate discussions with both Ukraine and Russia since former President Donald Trump introduced a proposal last month to resolve the conflict. That plan was generally perceived as favoring Russia, prompting Ukraine and its European allies to advocate for modifications more in line with Kyiv's perspectives.

Zelenskyy noted that negotiations with the U.S. have bridged gaps on various issues, even though some Ukrainian alternative proposals have yet to be accepted.

“Fundamentally, we have aligned on most matters,” he affirmed, adding that several core components of the draft agreement have reached consensus.

Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Remains a Point of Disagreement

A similar demilitarization approach is being contemplated for the vicinity of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear facility, currently controlled by Russia. The U.S. has suggested a tripartite consortium involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States, with equal stakes for all parties.

Zelenskyy dismissed this idea as impractical and suggested an alternative joint venture with the U.S., granting Washington a 50% stake and the autonomy to determine energy distribution, potentially including allocations for Russia.

He indicated that resuming operations at the plant would necessitate billions in investments for repairs to essential infrastructure and the nearby dam. Talks aiming to establish the nearby city of Enerhodar as a demilitarized free economic zone have stalled due to prolonged discussions.

Security Assurances and Military Limitations

The draft framework proposes “strong” security assurances for Ukraine, inspired by NATO's Article 5 principle that an attack on one ally constitutes an attack on all. A distinct agreement with the United States is expected to outline how these guarantees will be enacted and monitored during a ceasefire.

The plan also seeks to keep Ukraine's armed forces at 800,000 personnel during peacetime — a sensitive topic, given Moscow's longstanding demands for restrictions on Ukraine's military size. Furthermore, the draft sets a target date for Ukraine’s European Union accession.

Elections, Trade, and Reconstruction

The agreement also encompasses economic and political elements. Ukraine aims to conduct elections post-signing of the agreement, following postponements caused by the war. Zelenskyy's term is set to expire in May 2024.

The document advocates for accelerating a free trade agreement between Ukraine and the U.S., with Washington aiming for a similar deal with Russia. Kyiv is pursuing temporary preferential access to European markets along with a global development package to attract investments into critical sectors.

Ukraine estimates that up to $800 billion could be generated for reconstruction through a combination of equity, grants, loans, and private sector investment. Kyiv is also pressing for the immediate release of all detainees held since 2014, including civilians and political prisoners.

Ongoing Security Concerns

Despite ongoing diplomatic initiatives, violence persists. Russian investigators reported on Wednesday that an explosion in Moscow resulted in three fatalities, including two police officers. Ukrainian military intelligence informed The Associated Press that the explosion was aimed at individuals contributing to Russia’s military efforts, though further details were not disclosed.

As negotiations progress, Zelenskyy underscored that any agreement must carefully weigh territorial realities, security guarantees, and public consent — a complex juxtaposition that illustrates the formidable challenge of achieving lasting peace.

#Global News