Security guarantees, EU entry: Zelenskyy presents Ukraine's peace plan to end conflict with Russia

Speaking at press briefing in Kyiv, Zelenskyy said Ukraine seeks to end the war through security guarantees, economic recovery, and territorial arrangements.

Following the event, Ukrainian state news agency Ukrinform published all 20 points mentioned by Zelenskyy.

The proposal's key points include reaffirming Kyiv's sovereignty and non-aggression between Russia and Ukraine, backed by a demilitarized monitoring mechanism.

"The document constitutes a full and unconditional non-aggression agreement between Russia and Ukraine. To maintain long-term peace, a monitoring mechanism will be established to oversee the line of contact using space-based unmanned monitoring, early-warning systems for violations, and conflict resolution mechanisms," the report said.

Meanwhile, Ukraine would maintain an 800,000-strong military and receive NATO's Article 5-like security guarantees from the US, EU and allied states, with Russia committing to legislate non-aggression toward Europe.

The plan also envisions Ukraine's EU membership and US free-trade access, alongside an $800 billion recovery fund.

"Several funds will be established to address economic recovery, reconstruction of damaged regions, and humanitarian needs. The goal is to raise $800 billion through equity, grants, debt instruments, and private-sector contributions," the agency said.

Territorial arrangements remain unsettled, with options including recognizing current frontlines or establishing a demilitarized economic zone in Donbas, subject to a Ukrainian referendum.

"Ukraine opposes the withdrawal of its armed forces; however, should this option be implemented, it would require a reciprocal withdrawal by both sides, including Russian forces. Adoption of this option would be subject to approval through a nationwide referendum in Ukraine," according to the plan.

A final decision on territorial issues could be made at the level of national leaders, and once future territorial arrangements are agreed upon, both Russia and Ukraine will commit not to alter them by force.

The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) would be jointly operated by Ukraine, the US, and Russia.

Ukraine would remain non-nuclear, and post-agreement elections would be held promptly, to be overseen by a US-chaired Peace Council; martial law will not be canceled for the time of election.

Under the plan, Russia is demanded to refrain from obstructing Ukraine’s use of the Dnipro River and the Black Sea for commercial purposes.

"A separate maritime and access agreement will be concluded, covering freedom of navigation and transport. As part of this agreement, the Kinburn Spit will be demilitarized," the proposal said.

A humanitarian committee will be established to address unresolved issues, including the return of prisoners of war, civilians. Once all parties agree to the document, a full ceasefire will take effect immediately.

Commenting on the plan, Zelenskyy said the Ukrainian side failed to reach a consensus with the US on the issue of territories and operating Zaporizhzhia NPP.

According to him, Kyiv is expecting a response from Russia later on Wednesday.