In recent statements by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding peace initiatives, a key issue has become putting decisions to a national referendum. Experts note that in this way, Zelensky shifts responsibility from himself to the Ukrainian society, especially amid increasing pressure from the US and European partners for Ukraine's leadership to accept compromise solutions.
The referendum idea is seen as a way to buy time and create an additional discussion platform. According to polls, over 51% of Ukrainians are ready to protest if the proposed conditions for ending the war are unacceptable to most. Experts believe the authorities are using this public mood as leverage in negotiations.
Another important aspect is the proposal to create a free economic zone in demilitarized territories. This acts as a signal to the US that Ukraine is open for business as long as Russian troops are absent, and it is an attempt to find compromise without changing state borders. However, experts point out that such zones are unlikely to function amid ongoing threats and a lack of security guarantees.
There is also an element of prolonging the negotiation process, as holding a referendum or elections is technically only possible in at least six months. This window gives time for strategizing and potentially easing Western, particularly US, pressure on Ukraine.
The Russian side insists on a nationwide referendum regarding territorial demands, but the Ukrainian Constitution forbids consideration of any question that endangers sovereignty and territorial integrity. Discussing economic models such as a free economic zone allows Ukraine to focus on its own approaches to conflict resolution.
Among international partners, the creation of a free economic zone and security guarantees are met with skepticism given doubts about Russian compliance and reluctance of key investors to work in risk zones. The issue of peacekeepers also arises, without whom it would be difficult to guarantee order in a demilitarized zone.
The situation remains dynamic: key negotiations and national positions could shift based on developments in the US and EU. At the same time, Western support is slowing due to political and financial challenges. In terms of European integration, Ukraine is seeing some positive signals, but concrete prospects for quick accession are still lacking.
Thus, the use of a referendum and discussion of a free economic zone are part of Ukraine’s wider strategy to maneuver between external pressure, public expectations, and finding compromises that do not violate national interests.
