Zelensky Details Revised U.S.-Mediated Peace Plan as Russia Launches Mass Strikes and Ukraine Withdraws From Siversk

Overview

• Ukraine says the latest U.S.-brokered drafts include security guarantees, a proposed monitored non‑aggression framework, and postwar reconstruction measures, with no requirement to renounce a future NATO bid.
• Zelensky outlined elements of a roughly 20‑point proposal, including a potential demilitarized zone along the current frontline, joint arrangements for the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, elections after a deal, and a U.S.-led Peace Council to enforce compliance.
• Russia launched 635 drones and 38 missiles on Dec. 23, killing at least three people and triggering widespread power cuts; Ukraine reports intercepting 587 drones and 34 missiles as Poland scrambled jets to secure its airspace.
• Kyiv confirmed a withdrawal from Siversk to preserve forces, acknowledging Russian advantages in manpower and equipment and signaling pressure on defenses protecting Sloviansk and Kramatorsk.
• U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff called recent meetings with Russian and Ukrainian representatives productive, while Moscow described only slow progress and said it will respond to the revised texts.