Washington/Moscow (Agencies): The United States has unveiled a 7-point peace plan for Ukraine, aiming to resolve the ongoing conflict with Russia. The plan, spearheaded by US envoy General Keith Kellogg, seeks Ukraine’s approval and agreement during discussions scheduled for Wednesday. It reportedly includes provisions for freezing the current frontline, allowing Russia to retain control over territories it has occupied, including parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. Additionally, the plan suggests formal recognition of Crimea as Russian territory.
In a surprising development, Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly offered to halt the frontline invasion of Ukraine. During a meeting in St. Petersburg earlier in April, Putin allegedly told Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff that Moscow could stop troops and even renounce claims to four partly-occupied Ukrainian regions still under Kyiv’s control, in a bid to reach a peace agreement. This unconfirmed revelation has sparked speculation about Putin’s willingness to step back from his radical demands.
The US proposal also includes Washington’s recognition of Russia’s de facto control over parts of the four regions it currently holds. While the plan represents the first sign of potential compromise from Putin, European officials have warned that the Russian leader may use this unpredictable move to manipulate Trump into accepting broader demands.
Critics argue that the plan could undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has previously stated that recognizing occupied territories as Russian is a “red line” for Ukraine. Pressure on Kyiv to concede has raised concerns about the long-term implications of the settlement.
As the US and Russia explore avenues for peace, the international community remains divided over the proposed compromises, with many questioning whether they will lead to lasting stability or further geopolitical tensions. The situation continues to evolve, with high stakes for Ukraine’s future and global security.