NYT releases supposed draft of unsuccessful Russia-Ukraine peace agreement
Date
6/23/2024 8:58:11 AM
(MENAFN) The New York Times has unveiled what it purports to be leaked drafts of a peace agreement negotiated between Russia and Ukraine during the early stages of their ongoing conflict. Published on Saturday, the documents allegedly reveal contentious terms discussed in Istanbul, causing alarm among the United States and Poland over potential implications for Ukraine's Sovereignty and military capacity.
According to the NYT, one of the documents, dated March 17, 2022, outlines a proposed treaty text supposedly drafted by Ukraine. In exchange for security assurances from major global powers including the United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China, Ukraine would agree to adopt a stance of "permanent neutrality." This neutrality would require Ukraine to refrain from joining military alliances and annul any agreements deemed incompatible with this status. Additionally, the draft reportedly stipulates recognition of Crimea as part of Russia and acknowledges the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics as independent entities. The agreement also includes provisions for Ukraine to reconstruct infrastructure damaged during the conflict between 2014 and 2022. Notably, while the document places restrictions on Ukraine's possession of heavy military equipment, Russia purportedly disputed that it required any reduction in Ukraine's armed forces.
The documents published by the New York Times include annotations highlighting disagreements and criticisms from both Ukrainian and Russian perspectives, indicating contentious points such as the recognition of Crimea's status and the independence of the Donbass regions. These annotations underscored significant reservations and concerns from Ukrainian officials about certain proposed terms.
The disclosure of these draft agreements has stirred debate and scrutiny, particularly regarding their potential implications for Ukraine's territorial integrity, military capabilities, and geopolitical alignment. The leaked documents offer a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes negotiations and the complex diplomatic maneuvers surrounding efforts to resolve one of Europe's most protracted conflicts.
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