Moscow is reportedly reviewing a US-brokered peace plan for Ukraine, while Kyiv has reiterated its refusal to cede any territory in exchange for peace, signaling a potentially complex path towards de-escalation. According to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, Russia has received the core elements of a proposed peace agreement, reportedly facilitated by the United States during negotiations with Ukraine in Geneva. Discussions regarding the plan are scheduled to take place in Moscow next week.
Peskov highlighted that the upcoming negotiations will focus on resolving discrepancies related to the international recognition of any settlement reached in Ukraine. He emphasized Russia’s preference for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
These developments follow statements made by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who asserted that a cessation of hostilities hinges on Ukraine’s withdrawal from territories it occupies in the Donbas region. He warned that if Ukraine does not withdraw, Russia would pursue its objectives through military force.
Addressing the US peace proposal, Putin acknowledged that a final agreement has not yet been reached, but suggested it could serve as a foundation for future discussions. He noted that Washington is taking Russia’s positions into consideration.
Meanwhile, Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian President’s Office, affirmed that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will not agree to cede any Ukrainian territory to Russia in exchange for peace. Yermak, also a key negotiator for Ukraine, stated that any agreement involving territorial concessions would be unconstitutional and unacceptable as long as Zelenskyy remains in office.
Yermak indicated that discussions could realistically focus on defining a line of demarcation. He described a proposal reached during negotiations in Abu Dhabi as not conflicting with Ukraine’s interests. The contrasting positions of Russia and Ukraine highlight the significant challenges in achieving a lasting peace agreement. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the US-brokered plan can bridge the divide and pave the way for a de-escalation of the conflict.
