The Biden administration is reportedly engaging with Russia on a potential framework for a ceasefire in Ukraine, a move that comes as the conflict nears it’s two-year mark and amid ongoing fighting in eastern Ukraine. Details of the 28-point plan,which reportedly envisions significant concessions from Kyiv-including territorial relinquishment and limitations on its military-are emerging as a U.S. delegation travels to Ukraine for discussions. The proposal reflects a complex geopolitical calculation as winter approaches and battlefield conditions remain challenging for both sides.
The United States is reportedly collaborating with Russia on a new plan aimed at achieving a ceasefire in Ukraine. The development comes as the conflict continues to rage, with significant implications for global security.
A U.S. delegation is currently in Ukraine to discuss the proposal. According to reports, the plan was developed without direct Ukrainian involvement, though Kyiv was informed of the discussions between Washington and Moscow.
The proposal, consisting of 28 points and reportedly inspired by the framework that led to the ceasefire in Gaza, would require Ukraine to make substantial concessions. The New York Times reports that Ukraine would be compelled to cede territory, reduce the size of its armed forces, and relinquish certain long-range weapons. Specifically, Ukraine would be required to relinquish the entirety of the eastern Donbas region, including areas not currently under Russian control.
Furthermore, the plan reportedly prohibits the stationing of foreign troops in Ukraine to enforce any potential ceasefire. In exchange, the U.S. would offer security guarantees, according to Axios.
The Financial Times also reports that U.S. military aid would be scaled back and that Russian would be recognized as an official language in Ukraine.
Negotiations
The plan was reportedly drafted by Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, and his Russian counterpart, Kirill Dmitriev. NBC News indicates that Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, were also involved in the proposal. Former President Trump has reportedly approved the plan.
Neither Washington nor Moscow has officially confirmed the existence of the plan. Witkoff met with Zelenskyy in Turkey yesterday. High-ranking officials are currently in Ukraine to discuss the proposal.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has repeatedly stated he will not cede any land to Russia, which began the war in February 2022.
The plan comes at a difficult moment for Zelenskyy. The country is facing a political crisis due to a corruption scandal within the energy sector, involving a close friend of the president. Additionally, the situation on the battlefield is deteriorating, and Russian attacks on energy infrastructure threaten a dark and cold winter.
A U.S. team, led by top diplomat Dan Driscoll, is in Ukraine and will meet with Zelenskyy today upon his return from a visit to Turkey. Meanwhile, Russian airstrikes on Ukrainian infrastructure and civilian targets continue. Ukraine reported 26 deaths and 93 injuries yesterday in an attack on an apartment building in Ternopil, in western Ukraine.
