Zelensky criticized the US proposal for a demilitarized zone in Donbas
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky expressed concern about the US initiative to create a “free economic” or “demilitarized” zone in the Donetsk region.
As part of the peace plan proposed by the United States, there was talk of a possible withdrawal of the Ukrainian Armed Forces from Donbas, while Russia would guarantee not to enter these territories. However, Zelensky described this option as unfair, asserting that both sides should leave on equal terms. The president emphasized that Ukraine upholds the position of ceasefire, which means both sides remain in their positions. “We stand where we stand,” Zelensky said.
The president also stressed the importance of not believing Kremlin disinformation, citing the example of Kupiansk in the Kharkiv region. He highlighted attempts by Russia to occupy territories politically and diplomatically, while Washington proposed a compromise that Zelensky deems unfair, as it questions control over the economic zone.
According to Zelensky, negotiations with the US are ongoing, but this aspect of the peace plan remains unresolved. Ukrainian-American negotiations in Berlin are scheduled to continue on December 14, where Kyiv hopes to obtain more concrete answers to its proposals. Zelensky also confirmed that the parties are discussing security guarantees for Ukraine similar to NATO Article 5.
