The United States and Ukraine have established a consensus on several key issues in an effort to resolve the nearly four-year conflict, as confirmed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Despite this progress, significant challenges remain, particularly concerning territorial disputes in Ukraine’s eastern regions and the management of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, currently under Russian control.
Zelenskiy announced the developments following extensive discussions held in Florida, culminating in a comprehensive 20-point plan. This proposal has been shared with Russian negotiators, and a response from Moscow is anticipated on March 6, 2024. The Ukrainian president addressed the media on March 5, elaborating on the plan’s provisions while adhering to an embargo on specific details until the following day.
The draft plan seeks to balance both political and economic interests, aiming to enhance security and promote economic recovery. Central to the negotiations is the contentious issue of territorial control over the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, collectively known as the Donbas. Zelenskiy labelled this as “the most difficult point” of the discussions, indicating that these matters would require high-level engagement between leaders.
Russia continues to assert its claims, demanding that Ukraine concede additional territory in Donetsk. Ukraine has firmly rejected these ultimatums, with Russian forces currently occupying the majority of Luhansk and approximately 70 percent of Donetsk. In an attempt to facilitate compromise, the United States proposed transforming these contested areas into free economic zones. However, Zelenskiy insisted that any arrangement must hinge on a referendum, allowing the Ukrainian populace to decide their fate.
Moreover, the management of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant presents another significant hurdle. The US has suggested establishing a consortium involving both Ukraine and Russia, granting equal stakes to each party. In contrast, Zelenskiy has proposed a joint venture between the US and Ukraine, enabling American stakeholders to determine how to allocate their share, which would likely be directed towards Russia.
“We did not reach a consensus with the American side on the territory of the Donetsk region and on the ZNPP,” Zelenskiy stated, referencing the nuclear facility. “But we have significantly bridged most of the positions between us and them. In principle, all other consensus in this agreement has been found.”
The Kremlin has also been engaged in the discussions, with Russian President Vladimir Putin receiving briefings from special envoy Kirill Dmitriev. The Kremlin has refrained from disclosing its stance on the proposals, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasizing that the Kremlin will not communicate through the media regarding these matters.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains watchful of the developments. The outcome of these negotiations could significantly influence the trajectory of the conflict and the future of Ukraine, as both nations strive for a resolution that addresses critical security and territorial concerns.
