Introduction

In a significant development regarding the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has indicated that a withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the eastern Donbas region is a conceivable component of a new peace proposal. This statement marks a potential shift in Kyiv’s negotiating stance, specifically addressing one of Moscow’s primary demands. The proposal, recently drafted by American and Ukrainian negotiators, outlines a comprehensive 20-point framework aimed at ending the hostilities. This article provides a detailed analysis of the proposal, the geopolitical context, and the practical implications of establishing “free economic zones” and demilitarized areas.

Key Points

Background

Origins of the Negotiations

The current diplomatic momentum stems from a series of high-level meetings involving US special envoys, Ukrainian officials, and European leaders. Initial talks took place in Berlin, involving US negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The environment subsequently shifted to Miami, where President Donald Trump’s team engaged separately with Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev and Ukrainian/European officials.

From 28 Points to 20 Points

The document currently on the table is viewed as a streamlined update of an original 28-point report. That earlier version, negotiated by US envoy Steve Witkoff with Russian representatives, was widely criticized for heavily favoring the Kremlin’s demands. The new 20-point draft attempts to recalibrate the terms to offer more protection to Ukrainian interests, specifically regarding territorial integrity and future security.

Russia’s Territorial Demands

Moscow has consistently insisted that Ukraine withdraw from nearly a quarter of its territory in the eastern Donetsk region as a precondition for a peace deal. Currently, a significant portion of the Donbas is already under Russian occupation. The new proposal attempts to find a middle ground regarding the remaining Ukrainian-held territory in the east.

Analysis

Strategic Shift in Ukrainian Stance

President Zelensky’s willingness to discuss a withdrawal represents a nuanced shift in rhetoric. While he has maintained that Ukraine is fundamentally against ceding territory, the introduction of the “free economic zone” concept allows for a potential military disengagement without formal political recognition of Russian sovereignty over the region. This distinction is crucial for Kyiv, as it preserves legal claims to the land while creating physical separation.

The “Free Economic Zone” Mechanism

The proposal details a reciprocal de-escalation strategy. If Ukrainian heavy forces were to withdraw 5, 10, or 40 kilometers within the 25% of Donetsk they still hold, Russian forces would be required to do the same “accordingly.” This would create a demilitarized zone (DMZ) or a free economic zone, effectively halting direct combat operations.

Beyond the Donbas: Zaporizhzhia and Other Regions

The proposal extends beyond the Donbas. Zelensky emphasized that an economic zone must also be established around the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, a facility of immense strategic and safety importance. Furthermore, the draft calls for the withdrawal of Russian troops from four other Ukrainian regions: Dnipropetrovsk, Mykolaiv, Sumy, and Kharkiv.

Security Guarantees vs. Territorial Concessions

The central tension of the proposal lies in the trade-off between security and territory. The draft offers Ukraine a formidable deterrent: a potential future military force of 800,000 troops backed by Western guarantees. However, sensitive issues, including the final status of the Donbas, would likely need to be resolved at the “leaders’ level” in a summit format.

Practical Advice

Understanding the “Free Economic Zone” Concept

For readers following the conflict, the term “Free Economic Zone” (FEZ) is a specific diplomatic tool. In this context, an FEZ implies a territory where military activity is suspended (demilitarized) to allow for economic activity or civilian life to resume. It acts as a buffer. If implemented:

• Civilian Safety: It reduces the immediate risk of artillery fire and ground assaults in the designated area.
• Humanitarian Access: It may facilitate the delivery of aid to populations in the “gray zone.”
• Monitoring: These zones usually require third-party observers (potentially UN or neutral parties) to ensure neither side violates the withdrawal parameters.

Assessing the Viability of Security Guarantees

When evaluating the strength of this proposal, the most critical factor is the nature of the security guarantees. The proposal suggests a “coordinated military response” from the US and NATO if Russia re-invades.

• Article 5 Parallels: While likely not a full NATO membership article, it aims to mimic the deterrent effect.
• The 800,000 Force: The mention of an 800,000-strong military capability suggests a long-term commitment to rebuilding Ukraine’s defense industry, potentially funded by Western partners.

FAQ

Conclusion

The latest statements from President Zelensky signal a pivotal moment in the diplomatic efforts to resolve the war in Ukraine. By floating the concept of a “free economic zone” and the potential withdrawal of troops from the Donbas, Kyiv is engaging with the territorial aspects of Russia’s demands, albeit with strict conditions. The proposal places heavy reliance on future security guarantees from the United States and NATO, aiming to secure Ukraine’s sovereignty even if it temporarily cedes physical control over certain areas. As the Russian response is awaited, the international community watches to see if this 20-point framework can transition from a diplomatic draft to a concrete peace treaty.

Sources

• Life Pulse Daily – Original Report on Zelensky’s Peace Proposal.
• Reports from US and Ukrainian negotiators regarding the Florida meetings.
• Statements from President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding the Donbas and Zaporizhzhia.