Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Tuesday that a draft framework aimed at ending Russia’s war against Ukraine includes U.S. security guarantees for a period of 15 years, while noting that he had personally requested guarantees lasting up to 50 years from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Speaking to journalists via WhatsApp, Zelenskyy stressed that security guarantees are a key prerequisite for any sustainable peace agreement and for Ukraine’s future stability.
Meeting with Russia Only After Agreement with Allies
The Ukrainian president underlined that a direct meeting with Russia would be possible only after the United States and European leaders agree on a Ukrainian-proposed peace framework.
“A meeting with Russia can only take place after President Trump and European leaders have agreed on the peace framework proposed by Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said, adding that Kyiv expects concrete security guarantees from its partners once a peace agreement is signed.
Peace Plan to Be Put to Referendum
Zelenskyy also revealed that Ukraine’s proposed 20-point peace plan should be submitted to a national referendum. However, he emphasized that holding such a referendum would require a ceasefire lasting at least 60 days.
According to the Ukrainian president, a meaningful public vote is impossible while active hostilities continue, making a sustained ceasefire an essential first step.
Talks with U.S. and European Officials Expected Soon
Zelenskyy expressed hope that a meeting involving Ukrainian, American, and European officials could take place in Ukraine “in the coming days” to advance peace efforts.
“In the coming days, we want to organize a meeting at the level of advisers. Rustem Umerov [Ukraine’s negotiator] is already in contact with American and European advisers. We want this meeting to take place in Ukraine, and I believe we will do everything possible to achieve that,” he said during an online briefing.
Martial Law to Remain Until Security Guarantees Are Secured
The Ukrainian leader also made clear that martial law, which currently prohibits men of military age from leaving the country, will be lifted only after the war ends and Ukraine receives firm security guarantees.
“We all want the war to end, and only then will martial law be lifted,” Zelenskyy said. “However, the lifting of martial law will take place when Ukraine has received security guarantees. Without security guarantees, this war cannot be considered fully over.”
Zelenskyy’s remarks highlight Kyiv’s insistence that any peace settlement must be accompanied by long-term international commitments to ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty, security, and freedom in the post-war period.
Source: ANA-MPA
