KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ongoing negotiations between Ukraine and the United States regarding a potential framework to end Russia's war have encountered significant unresolved issues, as highlighted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy last week. Zelenskyy discussed a 20-point plan currently under consideration, emphasizing the most challenging aspects while confirming that Ukraine has already communicated its stance to Washington. The U.S. is expected to convey Ukraine's position to Moscow as part of this diplomatic effort.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov addressed the situation on Friday, informing reporters of ongoing contacts between the Kremlin and U.S. representatives. This dialogue was sparked by Russian presidential envoy Kirill Dmitriev's recent meeting with U.S. officials in Florida. However, Peskov refrained from providing details, stating only that "it was agreed upon to continue the dialogue."
Among the unresolved issues presented by Zelenskyy are three critical points that remain major sticking points in the negotiations.
Security Guarantees
Zelenskyy indicated that discussions are still ongoing regarding the nature and scope of the security guarantees that would be extended to Ukraine under any potential agreement. A number of technical matters still need clarification, including the enforcement of these guarantees and the monitoring mechanisms to be established to ensure compliance from all parties involved.
Territory
The issue of territory remains a pivotal challenge in the negotiations. Zelenskyy highlighted that the fate of the territories claimed by Russia is the most complex aspect currently being discussed. While he did not go into specifics, he reiterated Ukraine's firm stance of not recognizing Russian control over regions occupied since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. Additionally, Zelenskyy asserted that Ukraine will not relinquish control over territories it currently holds, despite public demands from Russia for such concessions.
Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant
One more contentious point revolves around the status of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which has been under Russian control since the war began. Zelenskyy mentioned that the future of Europe’s largest nuclear facility remains a significant concern, particularly in light of widespread international safety apprehensions regarding its proximity to active conflicts. Ukraine maintains that the safe operational status of the facility hinges on the demilitarization of the area, where Russian troops are presently stationed. Furthermore, Ukrainian workers demand unrestricted access to the plant, a stipulation that has not been met as of now.
The ongoing discussions between the U.S. and Ukrainian teams also indicate consideration of a joint-access framework involving all three nations — the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia — concerning the plant. These negotiations emphasize the necessity of collaboration to ensure safety and operational integrity.
Moreover, Zelenskyy indicated that additional discussions between Ukrainian and U.S. representatives are anticipated, potentially including talks in Florida. Alongside the security discussions, separate documents focused on economic recovery and future prosperity for Ukraine are also on the negotiating table.
