US ready to recognize Crimea as Russian in Ukraine peace deal.

US ready to recognize Crimea as Russian in Ukraine peace deal.

The United States has proposed a significant shift in its stance on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, signaling a readiness to recognize Crimea as part of Russia in exchange for a lasting ceasefire and a freeze on the current front lines. This proposal, discussed during a high-level meeting in Paris on Thursday, represents a major diplomatic shift that could reshape the course of the conflict if accepted [1].

The proposal, which includes a halt to hostilities, offers Russia sanctions relief and a recognition of its control over Crimea and parts of Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Luhansk, and Donetsk. These territories are currently occupied by Russia, with Moscow demanding international recognition of its control over these regions as a prerequisite for peace. Ukraine, however, has insisted that a ceasefire must be in place before deeper negotiations can begin [1].

The proposal was presented as part of a renewed push by the Trump administration to secure peace in the region. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the urgency of the situation, warning that the United States would not continue the mediation efforts indefinitely. "We need to determine very quickly now, and I’m talking about a matter of days, whether or not this is doable in the next few weeks. If it is, we’re in. If it’s not, then we have other priorities," Rubio stated [1].

While the proposal has been met with mixed reactions, some officials have expressed optimism about the chances of ending the war. Vice President JD Vance, speaking in Rome, was "optimistic" about the prospects of peace, reflecting ongoing White House efforts to balance urgency with diplomatic engagement [1].

Despite the ceasefire discussions, Russia has continued its military operations, striking Ukrainian cities. A week ago, missile strikes killed 35 civilians in Sumy, while a separate US-backed 30-day truce covering energy infrastructure expired on Friday without any indication from Moscow of an extension [1].

The fate of these territories remains a sticking point in negotiations, with Ukraine unwilling to recognize them as Russian and Russia demanding international recognition of its control. The five territories—Crimea, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Donetsk, and Luhansk—are central to the conflict, with Russia seeking to control these regions as part of its strategic goals [2].

The United States continues to recognize Ukraine’s sovereignty over these territories but has signaled a willingness to compromise on the issue of recognition. The proposal from the United States, if accepted, would mark a significant shift in its stance on the conflict, potentially paving the way for a ceasefire and a lasting peace in the region.

References:
[1] https://www.livemint.com/news/world/us-floats-sanctions-relief-for-russia-in-in-ukraine-peace-deal-trump-wants-this-war-to-end-11744989529450.html
[2] https://kyivindependent.com/what-to-know-about-the-5-key-territories-at-the-heart-of-ukraine-peace-talks/