Zelensky unveils peace plan offering EU membership, security guarantees

(MENAFN) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday outlined a detailed, 20-point proposal aimed at ending the war with Russia, placing strong emphasis on long-term security guarantees, economic revival, and Ukraine’s future integration with Europe.

Speaking at a press briefing in Kyiv, Zelenskyy said the initiative is designed to bring the conflict to a close through a combination of binding security arrangements, postwar recovery efforts, and agreed territorial frameworks.

Following his remarks, the full list of proposals was released by official Ukrainian sources.

Central to the plan is the reaffirmation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and a commitment by both sides to refrain from aggression, supported by an international oversight mechanism.

“The document constitutes a full and unconditional non-aggression agreement between Russia and Ukraine. To maintain long-term peace, a monitoring mechanism will be established to oversee the line of contact using space-based unmanned monitoring, early-warning systems for violations, and conflict resolution mechanisms,” the report said.

Under the proposal, Ukraine would retain a military force of roughly 800,000 personnel while receiving security guarantees comparable to NATO’s Article 5 from the United States, the European Union, and allied countries. Russia, in turn, would commit in law to non-aggression toward Europe.

The plan also sets out Ukraine’s ambition to join the European Union and secure access to free trade with the United States, alongside the creation of a massive reconstruction and recovery package totaling $800 billion.

“Several funds will be established to address economic recovery, reconstruction of damaged regions, and humanitarian needs. The goal is to raise $800 billion through equity, grants, debt instruments, and private-sector contributions,” the agency said.

Territorial issues remain unresolved within the framework. Options under consideration include recognition of existing front lines or the creation of a demilitarized economic zone in the Donbas region, subject to approval by the Ukrainian public.

“Ukraine opposes the withdrawal of its armed forces; however, should this option be implemented, it would require a reciprocal withdrawal by both sides, including Russian forces. Adoption of this option would be subject to approval through a nationwide referendum in Ukraine,” according to the plan.

Any final determination on borders would ultimately be made by national leaders. Once an agreement is reached, both Moscow and Kyiv would pledge not to attempt territorial changes through force.

The proposal also addresses nuclear safety, calling for the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant to be jointly operated by Ukraine, the United States, and Russia. Ukraine would continue to uphold its non-nuclear status, while elections would be held swiftly after a peace deal under the supervision of a Peace Council chaired by the United States. Martial law would remain in place during the election period.

In terms of trade and navigation, the plan requires Russia to avoid interfering with Ukraine’s access to the Dnipro River and the Black Sea.

“A separate maritime and access agreement will be concluded, covering freedom of navigation and transport. As part of this agreement, the Kinburn Spit will be demilitarized,” the proposal said.

Humanitarian concerns also feature prominently, with the establishment of a dedicated committee to resolve outstanding issues such as the return of prisoners of war and civilians.

Once the document is accepted by all sides, an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire would take effect.

Commenting further, Zelenskyy acknowledged that Ukraine and the United States have not yet reached agreement on territorial matters or the future operation of the Zaporizhzhia plant. He added that Kyiv is expecting a response from Russia later on Wednesday.

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