Zelensky said the Ukrainian delegation had returned from meetings in Miami with U.S. representatives, adding that while the plan may not be perfect, it establishes a framework of security guarantees involving Ukraine, the European Union and the United States.
He said the package includes a general framework document on security guarantees with the EU and the U.S., as well as a separate bilateral document between Kyiv and Washington. The U.S.-Ukraine document, including classified annexes, will require consideration by the U.S. Congress.
A central element of the plan is maintaining Ukraine’s armed forces at 800,000 troops. Zelensky said Ukraine would provide core funding for its military but would need continued foreign support to sustain contracts and defense capabilities.
Another pillar of the security framework is Ukraine’s membership in the European Union, which Kyiv views as both an economic safeguard and a boost to defense potential, including participation in EU security and defense programs such as SAFE.
A third component involves a so-called “coalition of the willing,” envisioned to include around 30 countries providing security support in the air, on land and at sea. Some states would contribute troops on Ukrainian territory, while others — including neutral countries — would support energy, finance, humanitarian aid and civilian protection. Discussions also include a possible U.S. “backstop,” covering air defense, aviation and intelligence cooperation.
Separate talks focused on legally binding U.S. security guarantees, which Ukraine says would be submitted to and approved by Congress, distinguishing them from the Budapest Memorandum or the Minsk agreements. Negotiators are discussing the duration of the guarantees and options for extension, alongside a deterrence package for equipping the 800,000-strong Ukrainian military.
U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance said negotiations on Ukraine are difficult but that, for the first time, all disputed issues are being discussed openly. He cited the status of the Donetsk region as the main obstacle, along with the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, the fate of civilians and Ukraine’s reconstruction.
NBC News reported that differences have emerged within the U.S. administration, with tensions between Secretary of State Marco Rubio and special envoy Steve Witkoff over diplomatic initiatives and approaches to security and contacts with Russia.
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Source: Polskie Radio