Negotiators from the United States and Ukraine are set to reassess critical issues regarding territorial disputes and the management of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. These topics are at the forefront of ongoing peace discussions aimed at resolving the nearly four-year conflict instigated by Russia.
The delegations are currently in Paris for a third day of talks focused on securing peace and security guarantees for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire with Russia, which has shown resistance to the US-backed negotiation efforts. Zelenskiy announced on social media that the discussions would tackle “the most difficult issues from the basic framework for ending the war,” specifically mentioning the nuclear facility and territorial concerns.
As the talks progressed, Zelenskiy revealed that he had instructed his team to explore the possibility of high-level discussions involving US and European allies. Earlier reports from Zelenskiy’s senior advisor indicated that the talks had yielded “concrete results,” emphasizing that Ukraine’s national interests would be safeguarded throughout the negotiations.
During the previous day’s discussions, US officials, including special envoy Steve Witkoff, addressed potential “land options” that could facilitate a compromise. Ukraine has remained firm in its stance regarding the Donetsk region, which has seen significant territorial losses but remains under Ukrainian control. Zelenskiy stated that the US had proposed the establishment of a free economic zone in the industrial area, contingent upon Ukraine relinquishing certain parts of the region.
According to a recent opinion poll, approximately 75% of Ukrainians support a deal that would maintain the current front lines, yet they oppose any ceding of territory. Zelenskiy has suggested that any compromises on land should be subject to a referendum, allowing the Ukrainian populace to voice its opinion.
On the nuclear front, the US has proposed a trilateral operation of the Zaporizhzhia plant, which has been under Russian control since 2022. Zelenskiy noted that under this proposal, an American manager would oversee operations. Ukraine’s alternative proposal includes joint Ukrainian-American management of the facility, with the US determining how to utilize 50% of the energy produced.
In related developments, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that any potential deployment of UK forces under a declaration signed with France and Ukraine would require parliamentary approval. This declaration outlines the deployment of forces should a peace agreement materialize. Starmer assured parliament that he would keep members updated on developments and that any troop deployment would be subject to a vote.
As discussions continue, the international community watches closely, hopeful for a resolution that brings lasting peace to the region.
