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Kyiv Sends 20-Point Counterplan as U.S. Presses Donbas ‘Free Economic Zone’

Zelensky says territorial changes would require binding guarantees followed by a nationwide vote.

Overview

  • Ukraine formally delivered a revised 20-point proposal to Washington after consultations with European partners, seeking to reshape the U.S.-drafted framework.
  • The U.S. concept would see Ukrainian forces withdraw from Kyiv‑held parts of Donetsk to create a demilitarized “free economic zone” with no troops from either side, though governance of the area remains undefined.
  • President Trump said the United States would help with security as part of a deal, while the White House described him as frustrated with the pace of talks and noncommittal about weekend meetings unless progress is likely.
  • European allies say they are preparing a monitoring presence with drones and limited troop deployments away from front lines and are pressing for closer coordination with Washington.
  • Russia continues to demand full control of the Donbas and claims battlefield initiative, leaving core issues—territory, credible guarantees, and the status of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant—unresolved.