Zelensky Unveils Comprehensive “Victory Plan” to End War with Russia
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Volodymyr Zelensky stressed that "Russia must lose the war against Ukraine"
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has presented a significant “victory plan” to the Ukrainian parliament, outlining a strategy aimed at fortifying the nation’s stance in the ongoing conflict with Russia. In his address in Kyiv, Zelensky expressed optimism that this plan could potentially lead to the conclusion of the war, which escalated with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, by next year.
The plan comprises several crucial elements, including a formal invitation for Ukraine to join NATO, the lifting of restrictions by allies on long-range strikes using Western-supplied weaponry into Russian territory, a firm commitment to not compromise Ukraine’s territorial integrity, and the continuation of military operations into Russia’s western Kursk region.
The Kremlin swiftly dismissed the proposal, with a spokesperson suggesting that Kyiv needs to “sober up.” During his address to parliament, Zelensky also criticized nations such as China, Iran, and North Korea for their support of Russia, labeling them a “coalition of criminals.” He characterized Russian President Vladimir Putin as having “gone mad,” emphasizing the urgency and seriousness of the situation.
Zelensky intends to present his victory plan at an upcoming European Union summit, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the conflict: “We are at war with Russia on the battlefield, in international relations, in the economy, in the information sphere, and in people’s hearts,” he stated.
The five main points of Zelensky’s plan include:
- NATO Membership Invitation: Seeking formal inclusion in the NATO military alliance.
- Enhanced Defense Capabilities: Gaining permission from allies to employ long-range weapons against Russian targets and continuing military operations within Russian territory to prevent the establishment of “buffer zones” in Ukraine.
- Strategic Deterrent Deployment: Implementing a non-nuclear strategic deterrent package on Ukrainian soil.
- Joint Protection Initiatives: Collaborative safeguarding of Ukraine’s critical natural resources by the US and the EU, leveraging their economic potential.
- Post-War Military Transition: A proposal to replace certain US troops stationed in Europe with Ukrainian soldiers after the conflict ends.
Zelensky mentioned that three additional components of the plan would remain confidential and shared only with Ukraine’s partners.
Public response in Kyiv appears largely supportive. Residents expressed a collective desire to maintain territorial integrity and emphasized the importance of securing robust security guarantees. One local, Anatoly, insisted on the necessity of not ceding any land, while others, like Maria, voiced the urgent need to bring the war to a swift conclusion.
Zelensky’s plan was also presented to US President Joe Biden and key presidential candidates, including Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, last month. Notable allies such as the UK, France, Italy, and Germany have been briefed on the proposal as well. Following his address to parliament, Zelensky communicated with Biden to discuss the plan further, thanking the US for a new defense assistance package worth $425 million, which includes air defense systems and long-range weapons.
The White House commented on Zelensky’s plan, indicating that both leaders have tasked their teams to engage in further consultations regarding the next steps. However, US officials have raised concerns that the plan may lack a comprehensive strategy, viewing it as a rehashed request for additional military support.
Analysts speculate that the Biden administration is keen to avoid escalating tensions with Russia, especially ahead of the upcoming US presidential election. Nevertheless, Oleksandr Merezhko, a member of Zelensky’s political party, asserted that irrespective of the election outcome, American interests will dictate continued support for Ukraine.
Amid rising fatigue in the country, Zelensky acknowledged the challenges ahead, admitting that “victory” has become an uncomfortable concept for some. National morale is increasingly strained by a heavy death toll and ongoing military pressures, suggesting that any eventual peace deal may necessitate territorial concessions in exchange for security guarantees.
Despite this context, Zelensky remains resolute against compromise. He reaffirmed his commitment to pressuring Russia into negotiations while insisting on the integrity of Ukrainian territory. Merezhko emphasized that territorial concessions are “out of the question,” reinforcing Zelensky’s stance.
NATO’s new Secretary General, Mark Rutte, characterized Zelensky’s plan as a “strong signal” from Kyiv but noted the complexities involved in fully endorsing the proposal at this stage. Meanwhile, the Kremlin dismissed the plan as unrealistic, insisting that the only resolution would come when Ukraine acknowledges the futility of its current approach.
As the war continues, Zelensky’s “victory plan” represents a bold attempt to navigate the complexities of international relations, military strategy, and the quest for national sovereignty amidst ongoing conflict.
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