Key war issues settled between US and Ukraine, borders still disputed

KYIV, Dec 24: The United States and Ukraine have reached consensus on several critical issues aimed at ending the nearly four-year conflict, though key disputes remain over Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region and the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy outlined a 20-point plan negotiated with the US, which was shared with Russian negotiators, with Moscow’s response expected soon.
The draft plan intertwines political and economic interests to safeguard Ukraine’s security and stimulate its economy.
Central to the negotiations is the territorial dispute in Donetsk and Luhansk, the Donbas. Russia demands Ukraine cede the remaining areas it controls, a stance Ukraine rejects.
The US has proposed turning contested areas into free economic zones, while Ukraine insists any arrangement must follow a referendum and include demilitarization with international oversight.
The plan also suggests Russian withdrawal from Dnipropetrovsk, Mykolaiv, Sumy, and Kharkiv regions, with international forces monitoring the contact line.
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, under Russian occupation, is another sticking point.
The US proposes a tripartite joint operation, while Ukraine prefers a US-Ukraine joint venture, allowing the US to manage its share independently. Ukraine emphasizes restoring the plant and adjacent dam, requiring significant investment.
A separate annex would provide Ukraine with strong security guarantees akin to NATO’s Article 5, detailing conditions for intervention in the event of renewed Russian aggression, supported by satellite monitoring and early warning systems. The draft also addresses Ukraine’s army size, EU accession timeline, and economic recovery.
Economically, the agreement proposes accelerating a US-Ukraine free trade deal and securing short-term privileged access to the European market.
It envisions a global development package, reconstruction funds, and investments in technology, AI, gas, and other industries, targeting USD 800 billion in equity, grants, loans, and private contributions.
The plan requires Ukraine to hold elections post-agreement and calls for the immediate release of all prisoners, including civilians, political detainees, and children.
Zelenskyy emphasized that while some issues remain unresolved, significant progress has been made, bringing most positions closer together in pursuit of a peaceful resolution. (AP)