Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has unveiled a “comprehensive plan” initiative aimed at garnering widespread international by the majority of world to support to end the ongoing conflict with Russia, reported by Al Jazeera.
Speaking at a news conference in Kyiv alongside Slovenian President Natasa Pirc Musar, Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of presenting a globally backed strategy for peace. “It is very important for us to show a plan to end the war that will be supported by the majority of the world,” he stated, underscoring their diplomatic efforts.
Despite these efforts, Zelenskyy clarified that there are currently no direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. Public statements from both Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin indicate significant discord regarding the terms of any potential peace settlement. Ukraine has consistently demanded the withdrawal of Russian troops from its internationally recognized territories, including Crimea, annexed by Moscow in 2014, as a precondition for negotiations.
In contrast, Putin has insisted on further territorial concessions from Ukraine, exacerbating the stalemate. This standoff was highlighted during a recent two-day international summit hosted by Ukraine in Switzerland, which garnered support from over 90 countries. The summit’s final communique stressed the imperative of respecting Ukraine’s territorial integrity in any future resolution, where Russia was not invited, to rally support for Ukraine’s position.
Meanwhile, Russian forces continue to advance, claiming additional territory within Ukraine. Moscow presently occupies approximately 25 percent of Ukrainian territory, with additional annexations declared in 2022.
Zelenskyy, speaking at an EU Council Summit in Brussels, reiterated the urgency of the situation, pledging to present a detailed peace plan in the coming months. “We don’t have too much time,” he emphasized, citing escalating casualties among soldiers and civilians alike, Al Jazeera.