Ukraine’s Zelensky Demands Security Guarantees Amid Ongoing Conflict

Extended Security Guarantees Sought by Ukraine

President Volodymyr Selenskyj expressed his desire for more prolonged security guarantees from the United States than the proposed 15 years, during a recent meeting with President Donald Trump in the United States. Selenskyj proposed extending this duration to 30, 40, or even 50 years to ensure lasting peace, to which Trump responded with consideration.

Ukraine’s Stance on War’s Conclusion

Selenskyj firmly stated that without such guarantees, the conflict with their aggressive neighbor cannot be deemed as conclusively ended. He mentioned that once the war is officially over and the guarantees are in place, Ukraine would lift its martial law.

Progress Toward a Peace Plan

The discussions around a potential 20-point peace plan were also brought up by Selenskyj, suggesting a referendum to solidify it, which would involve Ukraine, the U.S., Russia, and European nations. However, a minimum of 60 days of ceasefire is a prerequisite for such a referendum, a condition currently unmet by Russia.

Insights from Trump on Security Guarantees

On his part, President Trump assured that the proposed peace plan would come with substantial security guarantees, with significant European involvement. He reported considerable progress during their discussions at his Mar-a-Lago estate, indicating that both parties were closer to an agreement than ever, with 90% of the peace plan terms agreed upon.

Contentious Issues Remain Unresolved

The status of the Donbass region remains a significant point of contention. Selenskyj revealed that the discussions had not yet resolved issues regarding the control of Donbass and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Russia continues to demand the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the region still under their control.

The Russian government, through spokesman Dmitry Peskov, announced an upcoming discussion between President Vladimir Putin and Trump, although no conversation between Putin and Selenskyj is scheduled. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron plans to host a meeting in Paris with a “coalition of the willing” to specify their contributions early in January.