Key details have emerged regarding a potential peace deal for Ukraine, following intensive discussions in Berlin involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US negotiators. Former US President Donald Trump has expressed optimism, stating that “we’re closer now than we have been, ever” to an agreement. The framework, reportedly a revised 20-point plan, includes significant concessions from Kyiv, such as abandoning its ambition to join NATO, in exchange for security guarantees modelled on NATO’s Article 5.

These “NATO-style” protections are being fronted by European allies with a multinational force, supported by the United States. US officials described these safeguards as the “platinum standard,” though they are not expected to be on offer indefinitely. While 90 percent of issues with the draft plan are reportedly resolved, the crucial sticking point remains territorial integrity. President Zelensky has been firm, stating that Ukraine cannot and will not cede territory, a stance that clashes directly with Russia’s demands.

Ukraine’s constitution prohibits relinquishing land, and President Zelensky has consistently maintained his inability to agree to territorial concessions. Despite this, US negotiators believe there is still room for compromise on the issue of territory. Following the Berlin talks, Zelensky is expected to present “thought-provoking ideas” from the US to his team. However, Russia’s deputy foreign minister reiterated on Tuesday that Moscow will not make concessions regarding Donbas, Crimea, or the broader region historically referred to as ‘Novorossiya’.

In a notable development, Ukraine’s aspiration to join the European Union is reportedly acceptable to Russia as part of a peace agreement. While some EU diplomats deem immediate accession unrealistic, others see it as a significant security guarantee. The potential for Ukraine’s EU membership is seen as a point of progress, with some sources suggesting a timeline as early as January 2027, though this remains speculative.

Another point of contention and potential agreement involves the sharing of power from Europe’s largest nuclear power station, the Zaporizhzhia plant, which Russia has occupied since the war began. US officials indicated that progress is being made towards an arrangement where both sides could share power, though the practical implementation of such an agreement remains unclear and complex.

Despite the reported advancements in negotiations, Russia’s unyielding position on territorial concessions presents a formidable hurdle. Moscow has stated it is awaiting an update from Washington before commenting further. The stark contrast between Ukraine’s willingness to make substantial concessions and Russia’s rigid stance on occupied territories underscores the delicate and challenging nature of the ongoing peace efforts.

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Keywords: Ukraine peace deal, Volodymyr Zelensky, Russian concessions, NATO-style guarantees, territorial integrity, Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, EU membership Ukraine, Donald Trump peace talks