Disagreements Between Washington and Kyiv: New Challenges in Peace Talks
There are significant differences between Washington and Kyiv regarding the peace agreement with Russia. The main sticking points are security guarantees for Ukraine and the US position on recognizing Russian control over Crimea.
Source: CNN, citing information from a source close to the Ukrainian government familiar with the agreement discussions.
Details: According to the source, the positions of the US and Ukraine diverge on key aspects of the future peace agreement.
Ukraine insists on receiving security guarantees not only from Europe but also from the US, while the initial American proposal suggested that reliable security guarantees would come solely from Europe.
Moreover, the US proposal to recognize Russian control over Crimea is entirely unacceptable for Ukraine.
Ukraine is also adamant about discussing the issue of territories occupied by Russia since the 2022 invasion after a ceasefire is reached.
The counterproposal from Ukraine, which was co-signed by France, the UK, and Germany, was delivered to Donald Trump's representative on Ukrainian matters, Kurt Volker. It calls for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire from both sides, which is Kyiv's main demand before any further actions.
In the source's words: "At the same time, Ukraine generally agreed to several provisions of the initial American plan, including the gradual lifting of sanctions against Russia imposed since 2014 after the peace plan is implemented; Ukraine's renouncement of NATO membership; freezing the frontline; and regaining control over the territory surrounding the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant."
Details: While differences remain, the steps taken by Ukraine for effective participation in negotiations are significant, noted Ukrainian officials.
"The fact that Ukraine is willing to discuss territories is a huge step. But if Trump does not see this as a significant concession, then that is a problem," the source said.
Background:
- President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on April 25 that Ukraine needs security guarantees from the US as strong as those provided to Israel – on land, in the air, and at sea.
- Earlier, media reported that the Trump administration provided Ukraine with a one-page document in Paris, presented as a "final proposal" for a peace settlement. Among other things, the US is prepared to recognize Russian control over Ukrainian Crimea and ease sanctions against Moscow.
- President Volodymyr Zelensky noted on April 24 that the US proposed its strategy regarding Ukrainian territories during negotiations in London; however, according to him, after the US proposal, "another paper emerged".