USA and Europe drafting peace plan for Ukraine and Russia involving security guarantees and territorial compromise – media

The United States and European countries are formulating a peace proposal to put an end to Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The proposal includes funding for Ukraine's reconstruction, security assurances, economic collaboration with Russia, and a cease-fire along the existing front line, according to a US official familiar with the negotiations, as reported by The Washington Post.

This diplomatic effort was initiated during a six-hour meeting last Friday in Florida, hosted by U.S. envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff. The attendees included Ukrainian officials and representatives from Britain, France, and Germany, gathered at the Shell Bay Golf Club, a property owned by Witkoff in Hallandale Beach, Florida.

U.S. negotiators aim to create a comprehensive package that addresses the postwar needs of both Ukraine and Russia, thereby facilitating a peaceful resolution. The peace plan consists of four key elements. The first pillar focuses on Ukraine's reconstruction, with the World Bank and the investment firm BlackRock developing a framework to address Zelensky's extensive financial requirements.

These requirements encompass rebuilding devastated regions, providing support to the families of fallen and injured soldiers, and revitalizing Ukraine's struggling economy. The second pillar entails security guarantees. Ukraine would receive a promise from the United States and European nations to respond militarily in case of a future Russian attack, akin to NATO's Article 5.

Russia is also expected to engage in negotiations with Europe to address its security concerns, although the specifics remain unclear. The third pillar involves the economic integration of Russia, Ukraine, and Europe through an energy deal. This could include a pipeline transporting Russian oil and gas to Europe, with Ukraine and Russia sharing the profits.

Such a pipeline would likely lower European energy expenses. The fourth and potentially most difficult component of the deal would be a ceasefire along the current front line, often referred to as the "line of control." This would necessitate Russia controlling the territories it has occupied, including the contested Donbas region.

However, determining the precise location of the line of control is challenging due to the frequent changes in the front. The European diplomat noted that Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries are impacting Russia's economy and enhancing Ukraine's negotiating position.