What's in Ukraine's full peace plan for Russia? Reuters reveals key points

Reuters reviewed the text of the peace proposals the Ukrainian delegation plans to present to the Russian side at the talks scheduled for tomorrow.

Framework of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia

Key principles of the agreement and the negotiation process:

• A complete and unconditional ceasefire in the air, on land, and at sea is a necessary prerequisite for peace talks.
• Confidence-building measures include resolving humanitarian issues. This specifically involves the unconditional return of all deported and illegally displaced persons.
• Non-recurrence of aggression is a goal. The negotiations aim to establish a lasting foundation for peace and security. They also seek to ensure that aggression does not happen again.
• Security guarantees and international involvement: Ukraine must receive reliable security guarantees. Both parties will invite the international community to participate in the talks and provide guarantees to ensure the implementation of agreements.
• Sovereignty: Ukraine is not obliged to remain neutral. It can choose to be part of the Euro-Atlantic community and pursue EU membership. Ukraine's NATO membership depends on consensus within the Alliance. There can be no restrictions on the size, deployment, or other parameters of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Nor can there be limits on the presence of friendly foreign troops on Ukrainian territory.
• Territorial issues: Territorial gains made by Russia since February 2014 are not recognized by the international community. The current line of contact is the starting point for negotiations. Territorial issues will be discussed only after a full and unconditional ceasefire.
• Sanctions: Some sanctions against Russia may be lifted, but gradually and in stages. A snapback mechanism will be in place to reinstate sanctions if needed. Frozen Russian sovereign assets will be used for reconstruction or remain frozen until reparations are paid.
• Implementation: A clear, balanced, and achievable roadmap will be agreed upon to implement and enforce the agreements.

Details of the Ukrainian proposal

After the meeting in Istanbul, talks will continue focusing on:

• full and unconditional ceasefire;
• monitoring of the ceasefire;
• confidence-building measures;
• preparation and agreement on the agenda and structure for future leader-level talks on key issues.

The negotiations will include participation from the US and Europe.

Ceasefire

A full and unconditional ceasefire in the air, on land, and at sea will last at least 30 days. It can be extended every 30 days as needed. This is a prerequisite for peace talks.

The ceasefire will be monitored by the US and supported by third countries.

Confidence-building measures

Following a successful prisoner exchange after the Istanbul talks, both sides will continue exchanging all prisoners of war under an "all-for-all" format.

There is also a need for an agreement on the unconditional return by Russia of all deported and displaced Ukrainian children. Russia must also release all civilian detainees.

These measures should cover all categories of people listed since February 2014.

Leaders' meeting

The leaders of Ukraine and Russia are to meet to agree on key aspects of the final peace settlement.

Key issues for the peace agreement to be agreed upon by leaders include:

• permanent and complete cessation of hostilities;
• terms, monitoring, and sanctions for violations;
• security guarantees and non-recurrence of aggression;
• territorial questions;
• economy, compensation, and reconstruction;
• penalties for breach of agreements;
• conclusion of the final peace agreement.

Negotiations in Istanbul

Earlier this week, Russia proposed a new round of talks. Monday, June 2, was set as the date.

Kyiv agreed to the meeting and already shared its document on ending the war with Moscow. However, Russia has not provided its version to anyone.

It was only said that the memorandum would be presented directly at the meeting.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed yesterday, May 31, that neither Ukraine, Türkiye, nor the US has seen the Russian document yet. He noted it is unclear what the Russians intend to bring to the talks in Istanbul.

For more on what the Istanbul talks might decide, read RBC-Ukraine's article.