Negotiators from Ukraine and the United States are set to revisit critical discussions concerning territorial disputes and the future of the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced this development as part of ongoing peace talks aimed at resolving the nearly four-year conflict with Russia.
The delegations are currently in Paris, engaged in their third day of talks among Ukraine’s allies regarding peace and security guarantees in the event of a ceasefire. The discussions come amid increasing pressure on Kyiv from Washington to secure a resolution, while Ukraine remains firm against Russian demands to relinquish control of its eastern Donetsk region and the nuclear facility, the largest in Europe.
Zelenskiy emphasized the significance of these negotiations, stating on social media that the most challenging issues related to the war’s framework will be addressed. He indicated that he has instructed his team to explore further discussions involving senior leaders from the US and European allies.
On the same day, Zelenskiy’s chief adviser highlighted the potential for “concrete results” from the ongoing talks, reaffirming the commitment to safeguarding Ukraine’s national interests. Earlier discussions between US and Ukrainian officials reportedly focused on potential solutions for territorial disputes. Steve Witkoff, the White House special envoy, mentioned that “land options” were a significant topic, expressing hope for a compromise.
Ukraine has consistently rejected any proposals to withdraw from the industrialized Donetsk region, where Russian forces have made advances but have not fully captured the area. Zelenskiy also noted that the US had suggested creating a free economic zone in Donetsk should Ukraine agree to vacate parts of the region it currently controls. He has previously stated that any territorial compromises would need to be put to a referendum for public approval, a sentiment echoed by a recent poll indicating that approximately three-quarters of Ukrainians would support freezing the current frontline but oppose ceding territory.
The talks in Paris have also included discussions on the operational management of the Zaporizhzhia plant. The US has proposed a trilateral operation involving an American chief manager, while Ukraine has suggested a collaborative approach that allows for joint Ukrainian-American control of the facility. Under this proposal, the US would dictate the usage of 50 percent of the energy produced by the plant.
Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer remarked that any potential deployment of UK forces under a declaration signed with France and Ukraine would require parliamentary approval. This declaration, signed by Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Zelenskiy, outlines the conditions for military involvement should a peace agreement be reached.
Starmer assured parliament that he would keep them updated on the developments and would submit any plans for troop deployment to a vote. He indicated that the number of troops involved would be determined based on UK military strategies currently under consideration.
As the negotiations continue, the focus remains on achieving a sustainable peace that addresses the complex issues of territory and security for Ukraine while navigating the delicate balance of international relations.
