Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said a draft peace plan discussed by Ukrainian and US negotiators could involve Kyiv withdrawing troops from parts of eastern Ukraine claimed by Russia, marking a significant, though contentious, shift in negotiations to end the war.
Speaking to reporters in Kyiv, Zelenskyy said the proposal envisions the Donbas region becoming a demilitarized «free economic zone,» with neither Ukrainian nor Russian forces present. Most of the territory is currently occupied by Moscow’s troops.
Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine opposes withdrawal but acknowledged the pressure to explore alternatives to continued fighting. He said the updated plan preserves security guarantees from the United States, NATO and European partners comparable to NATO’s Article 5, including the automatic restoration of sanctions if Russia launches a new invasion.
The proposal also supports Ukraine’s future membership in the European Union, its right to seek reparations from Russia, and international investment mechanisms to fund post-war reconstruction. Another provision would place the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant under joint Ukrainian, Russian and American administration.
Zelenskyy said any territorial or demilitarization decisions would require approval by Ukraine’s parliament and a nationwide referendum, adding that a full ceasefire would take effect immediately if a final agreement is reached.
Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that thousands of people gathered in Bethlehem on Christmas Eve, marking the city’s first full celebration after two years of subdued observances during the war in Gaza.
