In his broadcast, Vitaliy Portnikov analyzes the so-called peace plan of US President Donald Trump, details of which have appeared in Ukrainian media and sparked discussions within the government. According to Portnikov, Ukraine’s leadership, including President Volodymyr Zelensky, has clarified its position on key aspects of the plan, with unresolved issues concerning the status of Donetsk region and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
The plan includes around 20 points that reflect compromises among different parties. One key proposal is the creation of either a free economic zone or a demilitarized zone in Donetsk. Russia insists on the complete withdrawal of Ukrainian forces, while Ukraine proposes a compromise: freezing the current line of contact or reciprocal withdrawals by both sides.
Portnikov highlights significant legal challenges, particularly the prospect of referendums or elections on territorial matters. Ukraine’s constitution does not permit the cession of territory or related referenda. Changing a territory’s status would require a lengthy constitutional process offering no guarantees, making this issue contentious both legally and politically.
On the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, there are differing US and Russian positions on control. The US proposes joint management, but it is unclear why Russia would agree. The status of Donbas, Crimea, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia regions, as well as Ukraine’s security guarantees, remain unresolved.
The Trump plan also features political and economic provisions, such as Ukraine’s status with NATO, postwar reconstruction, and the use of frozen Russian assets. Many of the proposals raise skepticism due to a lack of clear mechanisms for implementation and reliance on Russian and Ukrainian legislative changes.
Portnikov stresses that even with political will, constitutional changes would take years, and signed agreements would not guarantee the long-term status of Ukrainian territories. He questions the readiness of Ukrainian society for such changes and highlights the unpredictable nature of the peace process, especially given the influence of Russia, the US, Europe, and domestic forces.
In conclusion, Portnikov notes that the Armed Forces of Ukraine remain the main guarantee of the country’s future, and all peace scenarios depend on preserving sovereignty and stability.
