Russian President Backs Trump's Comprehensive Peace Proposal
Vladimir Putin has thrown his weight behind Donald Trump's contentious 28-point peace blueprint for Ukraine, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict. The Russian president addressed his security council in Moscow this evening, discussing what he described as a 'modernised version' of proposals initially drafted before their Alaska meeting earlier this year.
Key Elements of the Controversial Plan
The comprehensive peace framework includes several controversial provisions that would fundamentally reshape Ukraine's security and territorial integrity. Among the most significant points are immediate ceasefire implementation, permanent exclusion from NATO membership, and the investment of $100 billion in frozen Russian assets into Ukraine's reconstruction efforts.
The plan outlines specific territorial arrangements that would see Russia retain control over several Ukrainian regions. According to the proposal, Crimea, Luhansk and Donetsk would be recognised as Russian territory, while Kherson and Zaporizhzhia would be frozen at current contact lines. Ukrainian forces would withdraw from parts of Donetsk region currently under their control, creating a neutral demilitarised buffer zone.
International Response and Ukrainian Position
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has maintained a firm stance amid these developments, having held urgent consultations with European and NATO allies. Zelensky emphasised that he 'wouldn't betray his country' during what he described as 'one of the most difficult moments' in Ukraine's history.
The Ukrainian leader also engaged in an hour-long telephone discussion with US Vice-President JD Vance, indicating the high-level diplomatic activity surrounding the proposed settlement. Meanwhile, Downing Street has confirmed that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer coordinated with Zelensky and other European leaders, reaffirming their 'unwavering commitment for a just and lasting peace' that preserves Ukrainian sovereignty.
Broader Implications and Security Measures
The peace plan extends beyond immediate conflict resolution to address long-term security architecture in Europe. It proposes capping Ukraine's armed forces at 600,000 personnel and establishing robust security guarantees while permanently barring NATO membership through constitutional amendments.
Economic components include substantial development packages for Ukraine and Russia's reintegration into the global economy. The agreement envisions sanction relief for Russia in phases and potential return to the G8, alongside joint US-Russian investment vehicles funded by previously frozen assets.
The proposed settlement also includes humanitarian provisions, calling for complete prisoner exchanges and the return of all civilian detainees, including children. It mandates Ukrainian elections within 100 days of agreement and grants full amnesty for wartime actions to all parties involved.
Implementation would be monitored by a Board of Peace chaired by Donald Trump, with penalties for violations. The agreement would become legally binding upon all parties' acceptance, triggering an immediate ceasefire and withdrawal to agreed positions.
