Following high-level talks, Ukraine's leader Zelenskyy has announced that the US administration has presented a proposed peace plan featuring protection pledges for Ukraine covering a period of 15 years.
Key Aspects of the Plan
President Zelenskyy stated that during a high-stakes meeting with US President Donald Trump, he had sought long-term defense assurances for as long as half a century. However, the proposed framework calls for a shorter commitment of fifteen years from Washington.
It is not clear what these assurances would entail, but the president has been pushing for "defense pledges similar to NATO's Article 5, inspired by Nato’s founding principle that an assault against a single ally is considered an act of war against every member.
Diplomatic Advancements
According to Zelenskyy, US security guarantees for Ukraine under the revised settlement framework have been fully agreed upon, whereas the American leader expressed more caution, suggesting the progress was more like ninety-five percent.
Each statesman said that headway was accomplished during the meeting at the US president's residence. Trump, however, cautioned that there were a couple of challenging outstanding issues, such as those related to land.
Prerequisites for Engagement
In related comments, the Ukrainian President informed reporters that a direct engagement with Moscow would be possible following the American and European allies agreed on a settlement proposal from Ukraine to bring hostilities to a close.
This remark comes following the US President told the media that he believed a three-way discussion between Russia, Ukraine and the US could happen "at the right time".
Historical Context
The Ukrainian and Russian presidents have not held direct talks since the end of 2019. Their last meeting, brokered by the leaders of France and Germany, sought to restart efforts to end the ongoing conflict.
In a later instance, in May 2025, the Kremlin leader declined to go to Istanbul for negotiations with his Ukrainian counterpart, turning down a bold proposal to engage in peace talks in Turkey.
Key Sticking Points
A key sticking point continues to be the status of the Donbas territory. The US President indicated that a plan to turn the region, which is predominantly held by Moscow's forces, into a demilitarised zone remains "unresolved".
He added that it will become clear within weeks if the hostilities can cease.
The leaders have underscored that the extended negotiations would continue as they strive for a durable settlement to the nearly four-year war.
