Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed the document presented by US Special Representative Steve Viteckoff during their meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saint Petersburg. Reports have indicated that the document contains ideas for a peace agreement that were previously discussed with Zelensky in Oslo.
Zelensky stated, “The document includes various proposals from the American side. The main points are that we cannot discuss our state’s neutrality. This is a shared vision with the Americans, and we cannot talk about limiting the Ukrainian army.”
He added that he would not go into detail about the document, describing it as a “discussion document” containing agreements with the American side.
Further emphasizing Ukraine’s stance, Zelensky remarked, “Our security guarantees cannot be dictated by the Russian side. It is clear that any limitations on our army and Ukraine’s neutrality are off the table. Territorial issues are a red line that can only be discussed at the leadership level.”
He pointed out that US representatives have long raised the issue of land swaps, while also indicating that there are other formats and proposals for communication.
Zelensky concluded with a firm statement: “We are not exchanging anything for anything.”
Context
- On October 13, The Washington Post’s David Ignatius reported on the preparation of a new US proposal package for peaceful resolution, comprising four main components: extensive reconstruction of Ukraine, an energy agreement involving a pipeline for transporting Russian energy resources to Europe with profit sharing between Kyiv and Moscow, gradual lifting of sanctions against Russia, and a ceasefire along the front line, effectively solidifying Moscow’s control over occupied territories including Donbas.
- On October 22, The Economist reported that the new US peace plan for Ukraine includes a demilitarized zone in Donbas. Russia would receive business agreements with the US, lifting of sanctions, and political normalization, while Ukraine is offered an investment package and EU membership in exchange for foregoing NATO membership.
