By Smartencyclopedia with Agencies

October 17, 2024 – Kyiv – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has unveiled his five-point “victory plan” to the Parliament in Kyiv, aiming to bring an end to the war with Russia. While the contents of the plan had been previously shared with key allies, including the United States, it remained largely confidential until now.

The plan, according to Zelensky, offers a roadmap to secure Ukraine’s victory and could lead to the war’s end by 2025. Military experts believe that it aims to bolster Ukraine’s position in future negotiations as global pressure grows for a diplomatic resolution, despite the current battlefield stalemate. Here’s a breakdown of the five critical elements of Zelensky’s proposal:

1. Ukraine’s NATO Membership Invitation

One of the centerpiece goals of Zelensky’s plan is securing a formal invitation for Ukraine to join NATO. Zelensky views membership as vital to Ukraine’s long-term security, both in terms of defending against Russian aggression and integrating with the West. Although NATO’s 32 member states declared Ukraine’s membership path as “irreversible” during the July summit, any real progress is unlikely until at least June 2025.

2. Strengthening Ukrainian Defense with Western Support

Zelensky’s plan includes continued military support from Western allies, emphasizing the need to lift restrictions on Ukraine’s use of long-range Western-supplied weapons inside Russia. He also advocates for extending Ukrainian military operations into Russian territory, including further incursions in Russia’s Kursk region, to prevent Moscow from establishing buffer zones near Ukraine’s borders.

3. Strategic Non-Nuclear Deterrence

A key component of the plan involves deploying a strategic, non-nuclear deterrent within Ukraine. This initiative would involve bolstering Ukraine’s defense infrastructure with Western backing to prevent future Russian incursions. This deterrent would send a clear message that Ukraine’s allies will remain resolute in protecting the country from future threats.

4. Joint Protection of Ukraine’s Resources

Zelensky’s plan also prioritizes the safeguarding of Ukraine’s natural resources and economic potential. He envisions a joint effort by the United States and the European Union to protect essential Ukrainian assets, ensuring they remain secure and are used to rebuild and stabilize the country in the post-war period.

5. U.S. Troop Replacements by Ukrainian Forces in Europe

For the post-war era, Zelensky’s plan suggests that Ukrainian troops could replace some U.S. forces currently stationed in Europe, a move that would reflect Ukraine’s integration into Western security structures and lessen the burden on American military deployments.

Western Response to the Victory Plan

While Zelensky has presented this plan to key allies such as President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and presidential candidate Donald Trump, reactions have been mixed. The White House has acknowledged discussions on the “victory plan,” but American officials reportedly remain cautious. Some view the proposal as a reworked request for more weapons and greater freedom of action rather than a comprehensive peace strategy.

According to U.S. officials quoted by the Wall Street Journal, the Biden administration is concerned about the risks of escalation with Russia, particularly as the U.S. enters a presidential election cycle. Analysts also believe that Western governments, especially those in Europe, are wary of committing to policies that could prolong or intensify the war.

However, NATO’s new Secretary-General Mark Rutte described Zelensky’s plan as a “strong signal” of Ukraine’s determination. “It doesn’t mean I can say I support every aspect of the plan—it’s complex, and there’s more to consider—but it shows resolve,” Rutte remarked.

Challenges Ahead for Zelensky

Despite the boldness of his proposal, Zelensky faces numerous obstacles. The morale of Ukrainian forces has been strained after two and a half years of relentless warfare. Ukrainian troops have suffered heavy casualties, especially in the contested Donetsk region, and public frustration is mounting over issues like the controversial mobilization law and constant Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities.

Internationally, Zelensky’s reliance on Western aid remains a significant factor. With political shifts on the horizon, especially in the U.S., Ukraine’s continued ability to wage war may depend on the outcome of the 2024 American presidential election.

Kremlin’s Reaction

Russia swiftly dismissed Zelensky’s plan. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov derided the proposal as “delusional,” claiming that Kyiv needed to “become sober.” Moscow insists that the only path to peace is for Ukraine to abandon its current strategy and acknowledge the futility of its resistance. However, Zelensky remains unwavering, stating that Ukraine must strengthen its military to compel Russia to negotiate on favorable terms, without sacrificing its territory.

As Zelensky prepares to present his “victory plan” at the upcoming European Union summit, it is clear that Ukraine’s future—and that of the war—remains uncertain. The battle is not only being fought on the ground but also in diplomatic circles, where decisions made in the coming months may shape the future of Europe’s security landscape for years to come.