Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced a significant step towards ending the ongoing conflict, stating that the first documents of a comprehensive 20-point peace plan could be ready for signature as soon as January. This follows what he described as successful discussions with US President Donald Trump in Florida.
Security Guarantees and Military Monitoring
The proposed framework, now in its final stages, hinges on the will of all involved parties. A cornerstone of the plan is a US offer of legally binding security guarantees for Ukraine spanning 15 years. President Zelenskyy is actively pushing to extend this commitment to a robust 50-year term, likening it to an "Article 5–like" pledge of defense.
Discussions are also focused on the potential deployment of US troops and a specialized monitoring mission to prevent Russian provocations immediately after a ceasefire takes effect. Zelenskyy clarified that any decision regarding American forces would be made solely by Washington, with such troops remaining under US authority. "This can be confirmed, to be honest, by the President of the United States of America. These are the troops of the United States, and that is why it is America that makes such decisions," Zelenskyy was quoted as saying.
Economic Revival and Defense Support
Beyond security, the plan features a massive economic component dubbed "Prosperous Ukraine." Zelenskyy revealed that President Trump views the country's reconstruction as a top priority, with ambitious goals to triple average wages through specialized conditions designed to attract American and European business investments.
On the defense front, Zelenskyy confirmed that Trump has pledged assistance with Patriot air defense systems. "President Trump said that he will help, and I am very grateful to him for this," Zelenskyy stated, adding that he requested an acceleration of the procurement process to bolster Ukraine's defenses.
Diplomatic Coordination and Russian Reaction
The Ukrainian leader dismissed recent Russian claims of a drone strike on President Vladimir Putin's residence as a "typical lie" intended to sabotage the progress made during the Florida meetings. He suggested that Moscow has been unnerved by the success of the talks, leading to attempts to manipulate the negotiating process.
Kyiv is intensifying its diplomatic coordination with Western partners. Security advisers from the Coalition of the Willing are scheduled to meet in Ukraine on January 3 to align defense priorities. This will be followed by high-level leaders' talks planned for January 6 in France. Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine remains in constant contact with the US, thanking Trump's team for their engagement in the upcoming negotiations.
