Ukraine Faces Major Territorial and Military Concessions in Draft Peace Plan

Ukraine is reportedly facing significant territorial and military concessions under a new draft peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with Russia. The proposal, which emerged from discussions between US and Russian officials, suggests that Ukraine would lease parts of its territory to Russia while also reducing the size of its military forces.

The plan was outlined during a meeting between US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Kirill Dmitriev, an adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin, held in Miami last month. Together, they developed a comprehensive 28-point proposal intended to facilitate a resolution to the war.

Territorial Changes and Military Restrictions

According to reports from The Daily Telegraph, the draft plan would compel Ukraine to cede control of the eastern Donbas region, where it currently maintains approximately 14.5 percent of the territory. Although Ukraine would retain legal ownership of Donbas, Russia would be obligated to pay a fee to Kyiv for using the land. Under Ukrainian law, any territorial concessions would require public approval through a referendum.

In addition to territorial adjustments, the draft also includes provisions that would limit Ukraine’s military capabilities. This includes restrictions on long-range weapons and a requirement to relinquish a significant portion of its critical stockpile of US-supplied arms. Reports from The Financial Times indicate that foreign troops would not be permitted on Ukrainian soil under the terms of this agreement.

Concerns Over Proposal and Diplomatic Developments

Officials familiar with the negotiations have expressed concerns that the draft appears to heavily favor Russian interests. One source described the proposals as “heavily tilted towards Russia,” while another remarked that it seemed like a tactic to leverage the Trump administration. A Russian source characterized the plan as a mixture of practical proposals and unrealistic expectations, noting that parts of it would be “absolutely unacceptable for the Ukrainians.”

While discussions continue, General Keith Kellogg announced plans to step down as special envoy, a move that has raised questions about the diplomatic efforts surrounding the peace talks. A planned meeting in Turkey between Witkoff and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been postponed, leaving the future of these negotiations uncertain.

There is speculation that Zelensky may propose an alternative plan, developed in collaboration with European partners. Reports indicate that European officials have not been fully briefed on the details of the US-Russia discussions. One official from the White House stated, “It’s about Ukraine accepting,” suggesting a disregard for European input.

In contrast, a European diplomat expressed skepticism, stating that any resolution must consider Ukraine’s stance as well as the perspectives of Washington’s European allies. Allegations have surfaced that Turkish and Qatari officials have been involved in drafting the proposal and mediating discussions between the US and Russia.

As the situation evolves, Dmitriev has commented that the Kremlin is inclined to accept the plan, asserting that Russia’s position is being acknowledged. This assertion comes as Russia claims to have achieved further successes on the battlefield, potentially influencing the dynamics of ongoing negotiations.