Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a promising development in peace talks. He met with U.S. officials in Berlin to discuss a draft plan. Leaders from Kyiv, Washington and Western Europe participated actively.
They achieved consensus on about 90 percent of the U.S.-authored proposal. However some key issues remain unresolved. Zelenskyy described the plan as “very workable” but not perfect.
Details of the Peace Plan
The plan includes up to five documents. Several focus on security measures for Ukraine. Ukraine insists on regaining control over occupied territories like Donbas. Officials reject any recognition of Russian authority there.
It also deals with the return of Ukrainian prisoners and kidnapped children. This humanitarian aspect was strongly emphasized by Zelenskyy.
Challenges Ahead
Russia wants its annexed territories recognized, including Crimea. Putin wants a long-term agreement, not a short-term ceasefire agreement. This approach poses a multitude of obstacles for a deal. Thus Ukraine gets ready for a possible rejection.
International Reactions
The U.K. The Defense Secretary hailed the Berlin talks as a major breakthrough. He noted unprecedented progress in unity among allies. President Trump agreed that parties stand closer to settlement than ever. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stressed Russia’s need for lasting security guarantees.
Next Steps
American envoys plan to present the proposals to Russia within days. Further meetings could occur in the United States next weekend. Consequently the world watches closely. This initiative might end the nearly four-year conflict and restore peace.
