Ukraine ready to withdraw troops if Russia takes reciprocal action - FT
Photo: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (president.gov.ua)
Ukraine is ready to establish a demilitarized zone if Russia takes the same step. In exchange, the country expects clear security guarantees and support from allies in the event the agreements are violated, reports Financial Times.
According to FT sources, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed European leaders in a phone call on December 27 that Ukraine is ready to withdraw troops from the front line to create a demilitarized zone if Russia agrees to a similar measure.
In return, Ukraine seeks specific security guarantees defining the actions allies would take if Moscow breaches the peace agreements.
FT notes that Zelenskyy stressed the importance of stable funding for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the development of air defense systems, and maintaining the presence of European troops in the country.
Regarding territorial issues, any decisions would only be possible following a referendum conducted under peaceful and secure conditions. Zelenskyy also proposed transferring the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant to international control and distributing the electricity produced across both sides of the front.
The Ukrainian president also stated that Russia may not be fully willing to compromise but expects the US and allies to pressure Moscow to achieve tangible results.
Zelenskyy's meeting with Trump
Zelenskyy announced a visit to the US on December 28, where he is scheduled to meet with Donald Trump. Media reports suggest there are significant differences in approaches to the peace plan developed with Moscow and the US.
During the meeting, Zelenskyy plans to address territorial issues, including Donbas and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
European leaders are expected to join the discussions online. The meeting is scheduled for 8:00 PM Kyiv time, and the Ukrainian delegation has already arrived in the US.
