In News:

The United States has reportedly shared a 28-point draft peace proposal with Volodymyr Zelenskyy to explore a negotiated end to the Russia–Ukraine war. The draft is associated with the foreign-policy team of former US President Donald Trump and has been discussed in Geneva between US and Ukrainian officials. European partners are preparing a counter-proposal to safeguard Ukraine’s sovereignty.

What is the 28-Point Peace Plan?

• Nature: A US-drafted roadmap for a negotiated settlement of the Russia–Ukraine conflict.
• Objective:
  • Freeze the conflict and prevent further territorial expansion.
  • Rework European security arrangements by limiting NATO expansion.
  • Enable Ukraine’s economic reconstruction via US–EU mechanisms.

Key Provisions

1) Security Architecture Reset

• Ukraine to forgo NATO membership and enshrine permanent neutrality in its Constitution.
• Restrictions on Ukraine’s military strength (reported cap ~600,000 troops).
• NATO to formally guarantee Ukraine’s non-admission and avoid stationing troops on Ukrainian soil.

2) Territorial & Political Elements

• Ukraine expected to make territorial concessions to Russia (details unspecified).
• Tripartite dialogue (Russia–Ukraine–Europe) to resolve long-standing disputes.

3) Economic Reconstruction

• Ukraine Development Fund for technology, energy, AI, urban rebuilding, and resources.
• Use of ~$100 billion frozen Russian assets for reconstruction under US management; profit-sharing reported (US share) with additional EU contributions.

4) Russia’s Global Re-engagement

• Phased sanctions relief.
• Invitation for Russia to rejoin the G8.
• Prospective US–Russia cooperation in energy, rare earths, AI, and Arctic projects.

Diplomatic Process & Reactions

• Geneva talks: US and Ukraine termed discussions “productive,” aiming to align positions and refine the draft.
• Process concerns: Reports suggest Ukraine and some US officials were initially excluded from drafting; European allies seek safeguards.
• Ukraine’s stance: Any final deal must respect sovereignty and ensure durable security; Kyiv prefers territorial talks after stabilisation on current lines.
• Next steps: Continued US–Ukraine engagement; any agreement requires approval by Ukraine, the US, and Russia.

Significance

• Most detailed US-linked proposal since the war began.
• Potential to reshape NATO–Russia–Ukraine security dynamics.
• Controversial: Criticised as Russia-leaning and constraining Ukraine’s sovereignty.