Zelensky Proposes Territory Swap in Peace Talks with Russia

Ukrainian President Zelensky indicated a readiness to negotiate territory swaps with Russia, reiterating the need for U.S. support in providing security guarantees. His upcoming meeting with Vice President Vance aims to discuss peace efforts amid ongoing military conflicts in Ukraine. Zelensky also proposed collaboration with American companies for reconstruction in Ukraine, focusing on mutual economic benefits.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukraine is willing to exchange territory with Russia in potential peace talks, emphasizing that European nations alone cannot sustain Ukraine’s war effort. He expressed skepticism about the feasibility of European security guarantees without American support, reiterating that “Security guarantees without America are not real security guarantees.” Zelensky is scheduled to meet U.S. Vice President JD Vance to discuss the ongoing conflict and potential resolutions.

Zelensky’s peace proposal includes offering territory recently seized by Ukraine in Russia’s Kursk region in exchange for territories occupied by Russia since its annexations in 2014 and 2022. He stated, “We will swap one territory for another,” acknowledging uncertainty about which territories Ukraine could request in return. He emphasized the importance of all Ukrainian territories in negotiations.

The U.S. administration, under President Trump, aims to expedite a resolution to the conflict, with plans to send special envoy Keith Kellogg to Ukraine. Zelensky urges strong security assurances from the U.S. as a crucial part of any peace deal, expressing concerns over a potential settlement lacking concrete military commitments, which could empower Russia to regroup for future aggression.

To strengthen ties with the U.S., Zelensky proposed lucrative reconstruction contracts for American firms in Ukraine, presenting opportunities tied to the country’s extensive mineral resources. “We can offer our partners possibilities that didn’t exist before to invest in them,” he stated, suggesting that this collaboration can benefit both nations economically.

As discussions unfold in Munich amid Russian military advances in eastern Ukraine, Zelensky emphasizes the importance of tangible military support from the U.S. and European allies to ensure Ukraine’s defense and recovery strategy is viable going forward, particularly as fighting continues to devastate regions in Ukraine, especially the Donetsk area.

Zelensky’s statements highlight Ukraine’s strategic approach to negotiations with Russia, emphasizing the importance of U.S. involvement in security guarantees. The potential territory swap reflects a cautious willingness to find a resolution while safeguarding national interests. The U.S. administration’s role in facilitating peace talks will significantly influence the conflict’s outcome and Ukraine’s recovery efforts.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com