In a major diplomatic move, the United States has presented a proposal to its allies and involved parties aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, offering Russia a pathway to sanctions relief in exchange for a permanent ceasefire and a freeze of the current territorial front lines.
The plan, which was discussed during a high-level meeting in Paris on Thursday, reflects a significant shift in Washington's approach to the conflict. “Trump and the US want this war to end,” said State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, following a phone call between Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
According to European officials familiar with the discussions, the proposed peace framework would see Russia retain control over occupied regions—including Crimea and parts of Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Luhansk, and Donetsk. Additionally, Ukraine's NATO membership ambitions would be deferred under the terms being considered, as reported by Bloomberg.
Russia’s Conditions: Sanctions Relief and End to Arms Support
Moscow has made it clear that any agreement must include the removal of Western sanctions and a complete stop to military aid to Ukraine. Kremlin officials continue to insist that recognition of Russian sovereignty over seized territories is non-negotiable.
Ukraine: Ceasefire First, Then Dialogue
On the Ukrainian side, sources indicate that Kyiv is ready to observe a ceasefire but insists that Russia must be the first to formally commit. During the Paris meeting, the Ukrainian delegation emphasized the need for international mechanisms to monitor any truce, including talks on deploying a peacekeeping force.
Paris Talks Seen as Constructive
Thursday's meeting in Paris was attended by French President Emmanuel Macron, US envoy Steve Witkoff, Secretary Rubio, and security advisors from France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine. European officials described the tone of the talks as “constructive and positive,” noting that responsibility now rests with Russia to respond to the proposed deal.
Rubio: Time is Running Out
Speaking after the summit, Secretary Rubio signaled a sense of urgency. “We’re not going to keep pushing this indefinitely,” he said. “We need to know within days whether this peace effort can move forward. If not, we will shift our focus to other global priorities.”
The proposal comes amid continued stalemates on the battlefield and growing international pressure to find a sustainable resolution to the prolonged conflict.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)