Today, Vitaliy Portnikov analyzed the current situation surrounding US President Donald Trump's peace plan and the ongoing Ukrainian government negotiations about the country's future. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is engaged in complex discussions with leaders of the UK, Germany, and France over potential financing scenarios and securing support to resist US pressure for territorial concessions from Ukraine.
The main issue is Trump's proposal that Ukrainian forces leave parts of Donetsk oblast and Russia's refusal of true compromise. Zelensky unequivocally refuses to cede any territory, emphasizing there is no room for compromise on sovereignty, as such steps violate Ukrainian law and international norms.
Portnikov examines Russia's leadership strategy, attempting to create legal and political traps to deadlock Ukraine, reminiscent of the annexation of Crimea. He points out that any change in the status of occupied territories is virtually impossible without years of constitutional and parliamentary procedures and broad public support, which do not exist.
The article addresses the likelihood of EU support for Ukraine and whether the EU and US are ready for concrete actions if military escalation resumes. The author stresses that Russia has no real intention for peace; its strategy is the long-term destabilization and destruction of Ukrainian statehood.
In conclusion, relying on capitulation or quick agreements is not realistic. Ukrainian society must prepare for a protracted struggle to defend statehood and avoid legal and political traps presented by Russia.
