President Volodymyr Zelensky, speaking to reporters on Tuesday, said that Ukraine would submit a twenty-point peace agreement for ratification by parliaments around the world. He stated that the plan, which he described as a “roadmap for peace,” is based on the principles of restoring Ukraine’s territorial integrity, ensuring justice for war crimes, and preventing future Russian aggression.
Zelensky emphasized that the agreement is not a compromise on Ukraine’s sovereignty or territorial integrity. He insisted that any lasting peace must involve the complete withdrawal of Russian forces from all Ukrainian territory, including Crimea and the Donbas region.
“This is not a concession, this is a restoration of justice,” Zelensky said. “We are not giving up any of our land. we are simply demanding that Russia respect international law and leave our territory.”
The twenty-point plan includes provisions for security guarantees from international partners, financial assistance for Ukraine’s reconstruction, and a mechanism for holding Russia accountable for the damage it has caused. Zelensky expressed hope that the agreement would gain broad international support and put pressure on Russia to end the war.
He acknowledged that russia has so far shown no willingness to negotiate in good faith, but he said that Ukraine remains committed to finding a diplomatic solution to the conflict. “We will continue to fight for our freedom and our future,” Zelensky said. “But we will also continue to offer a path to peace.”
The announcement comes as fighting continues to rage in eastern Ukraine, with both sides claiming to have made gains. Western officials have expressed concern that Russia is preparing for a new offensive in the coming weeks.
Vladimir Zelensky, photo: Getty Images