The ongoing discussions around a potential peace agreement have highlighted three main unresolved issues: security guarantees for Ukraine instead of NATO membership, the conduct of elections, and territorial matters.
President Zelensky stated a compromise in which Ukraine may opt for security guarantees rather than NATO membership. Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas indirectly confirmed that NATO membership is no longer on the agenda. Regarding elections, Zelensky emphasized readiness to hold them only after security is ensured. Experts point out that this issue is mostly used by the US as a negotiation lever, not as a central sticking point.
The most significant disagreement relates to territory. Russia demands legal recognition of the annexation of five regions. Ukraine is willing to agree to a ceasefire along the current frontline without legally recognizing the occupied territories as Russian. The American mediators have put forward a compromise: de facto recognition of Crimea and Donbas, but leaving the status of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions undefined—a solution not fully meeting either side's official stance.
There are also ongoing debates about the size of the Ukrainian army. Figures between 600,000 and 800,000 have been mentioned, but a clear decision is lacking. European partners offer training and recruitment support, which remains insufficient for Ukraine's needs.
In summary, the three core issues—security guarantees, elections, and territorial integrity—remain the principal stumbling blocks. Russia's position is rigid, and a territorial compromise appears unlikely for now. Meanwhile, the US and European partners are seeking dialogue, but not at the expense of Ukraine's vital interests.
