On December 16, the Center for Civic Analytics "Vezha" broadcast featured political scientist Ihor Chelenko and center head Valeriy Klachuk. The centrist experts discussed the current state of the Ukraine peace talks, prospects for a settlement, and persisting difficulties.
A key part of the discussion was the six-point security proposal from the EU, Western support for Ukraine, and potential for US-backed security guarantees. Chelenko noted that while some progress is seen, the main problem—territorial disputes—remains unsolved. The issue of the postwar size of the Ukrainian army and Western suggestions, specifically about maintaining 800,000 troops in peacetime, were also addressed.
Experts pointed out that Russia remains opposed to the current proposals from Ukraine and the EU, and Western efforts to pressure Moscow through sanctions and diplomacy are ongoing. The discussion also covered the potential strengthening of the negotiation process through more active US involvement—for example, reports of attempts to influence Russia via envoys linked to Trump.
Chelenko highlighted the need for legally binding security guarantees to be ratified by Ukraine's partner parliaments. The experts expressed cautious optimism about finding a compromise and noted advantages of the EU’s new clear-cut position.
The participants concluded by emphasizing the complexity and multi-stage nature of the talks, urging a cool-headed assessment and close monitoring of developments in the coming days.
