Ukraine has put forward new proposals to the US regarding an end to the war with Russia, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced. Kyiv is counting on more active US involvement in the negotiations, the strengthening of air defences and pressure on Moscow. At the same time, Ukraine refuses to withdraw its troops from the unoccupied part of the Donbas, and links any potential agreements to effective security guarantees.
Briefly about the main points
- Kyiv has put forward new proposals to the US side regarding an end to the war.
- Zelenskyy is counting on the US to exert diplomatic influence, provide air defence systems and put pressure on Moscow.
- The details of the document are not being made public.
- Ukraine rejects the withdrawal of troops from the part of the Donbas under its control.
- The guarantees must provide for a specific response to any further aggression by Russia.
Washington may influence the course of the negotiations
Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the United States is capable of prompting Russia to prepare for end of war, rather than its extension. Ukraine links the diplomatic track with practical defence support: strengthening air defence and putting pressure on Moscow.
Kyiv’s initiatives came against the backdrop of the expected visits by US negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Kyiv and Moscow. Earlier, on 22 July, Zelenskyy discussed the resumption of diplomatic relations with them over the phone, together with Rustem Umerov, Kirill Budanov and Sergei Kislitsa.
Kyiv does not accept the withdrawal of troops from the part of Donbas under its control
The President does not support the option whereby Ukrainian troops would withdraw from the unoccupied part of the Donbas in exchange for a ceasefire. In his view, such a concession would not guarantee lasting peace; instead, it could give Russia time to regroup its forces.
Ukraine insists that territorial decisions must not undermine its defence capabilities or create the conditions for a new offensive. The fortified areas in the Donetsk region are crucial for deterring any further advance by Russian troops.
Kyiv regards security guarantees as a prerequisite for any potential agreements
Zelenskyy identified the following as the key issue in a possible settlement: security guarantees. Kyiv is seeking not political declarations, but specific commitments from its partners in the event of renewed Russian aggression.
The aim of such mechanisms is to prevent Russia from using the ceasefire as a lull to rebuild its army. Previously, possible measures under discussion included further arms supplies, strengthening air defence, support for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, and a swift response from partners to any new attack.
The future progress of the peace process will depend on the US response to the proposals put forward and on Washington’s willingness to step up pressure on Russia.
