Zelenskiy, Trump to Finalize 20-Point Ukraine Peace Framework in Florida Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has scheduled a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida on Sunday to finalize a 20-point peace proposal aimed at ending Russia's war in Ukraine. The talks will focus on key issues such as territorial concessions and security guarantees, with Zelenskiy stating that the draft peace plan is now 90% complete. The plan includes provisions for international security assurances and a potential framework for demilitarized zones in the Donbas region.

Zelenskiy emphasized that a 20-point peace framework with the U.S. was "almost ready" and that signing it would depend on the outcomes of the meeting with Trump. The peace proposal is being presented as a comprehensive effort to bring stability to the region and to secure long-term security for Ukraine. The plan also includes provisions for economic support and international monitoring of the agreement.

The U.S. has proposed demilitarized zones in parts of the Donetsk region, a proposal that has been contentious for Ukraine. Zelenskiy has suggested that Ukraine and Russia could both withdraw from some current positions to create a demilitarized zone, provided it is approved by Ukrainian voters. The proposal also includes robust security guarantees for Ukraine akin to NATO's Article 5, which commits member states to collective defense.

Key Points in the Peace Framework

The 20-point peace proposal outlines several key points, including reaffirming Ukraine's sovereignty and ensuring a full non-aggression agreement between Russia and Ukraine. The plan also includes the establishment of a monitoring mechanism using space-based unmanned surveillance to prevent violations of the agreement. Ukraine is to maintain its armed forces at their current strength of 800,000 personnel, and the U.S., NATO, and European countries are to provide security guarantees mirroring NATO's Article 5.

Another critical component of the proposal is the demilitarization of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which is currently under Russian control. The U.S. has proposed a joint operation of the plant involving Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia, each holding equal stakes, with the U.S. as chief manager. Kyiv, however, has proposed a 50-50 joint enterprise between the U.S. and Ukraine, with Ukraine receiving half of the energy produced.

The proposal also includes provisions for Ukraine's future economic development, including accelerated free-trade negotiations with the U.S. and access to a global development package of up to $800 billion for reconstruction. Zelenskiy has also emphasized the importance of Ukraine's EU membership and the establishment of humanitarian mechanisms to address the suffering of conflict victims.

Risks and Reactions

Despite the progress, several sticking points remain, particularly regarding territorial concessions and the status of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. Russia has indicated a willingness to consider a territory swap, but has insisted on full control of the Donbas region. The Kremlin has also stated that it is analyzing proposals brought back from the U.S. by its envoy, suggesting that Russia is not yet ready to finalize any agreement.

European leaders have also weighed in on the negotiations, with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasizing the importance of U.S. involvement in the alliance. Rutte has pushed back against calls for the EU to break away from the U.S. on defense matters, arguing that Washington remains a key partner in ensuring European security. Meanwhile, former EU digital chief Thierry Breton has criticized U.S. pressure on EU social media regulations, highlighting ongoing tensions between the two regions.

The outcome of the Zelenskiy-Trump meeting will be closely watched by international observers, as it could determine the trajectory of the peace process. The success of the proposed framework will depend on the willingness of all parties to compromise and to commit to the long-term security and stability of the region.