Volodymyr Zelensky has taken an important diplomatic step in efforts to end Ukraine’s three-year conflict with Russia by proposing demilitarised zones in eastern Ukraine as part of a revised peace proposal, developed jointly with U.S. negotiators. Kyiv’s move signals a change in approach toward territorial dispute that has been at the core of conflict, suggesting a willingness to explore mutual troop withdrawals or internationally monitored safe areas if Russia reciprocates. Reuters.
Zelensky unveiled details of the 20-point peace plan on December 24, 2025 and described it as an extensive plan designed to end active hostilities and lay the foundation for lasting ceasefire. While much of this proposal has already been agreed upon with Washington – such as firm security guarantees from both countries — its provisions for demilitarised zones in contested regions like Donbas remain one of its more delicate yet transformative aspects.
Under this plan, areas along the current front lines in Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson would be considered for demilitarisation or other arrangements such as free economic zones subject to mutual agreement and international oversight. Ukraine and Russia would withdraw military forces from designated sectors with international monitors like UN or EU personnel overseeing compliance and maintaining stability.
Zelensky noted in The Sun’s coverage that any troop withdrawal or creation of demilitarised zones must be dependent on an agreement to ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, and Ukrainian forces would not withdraw unilaterally. Furthermore, he stressed the significance of direct Ukrainian control and oversight over areas temporarily demilitarised while at the same time upholding Kyiv’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Key to Kyiv’s proposal is the notion that any changes relating to territorial control and demilitarisation must ultimately be approved by the Ukrainian people through some form of popular referendum, potentially through national balloting. This echoes Kyiv’s insistence that any compromise involving Ukraine must have democratic legitimacy at its foundation.
Even as efforts toward demilitarised zones move forward, major hurdles remain. Russia continues to press for concessions from Ukraine that include full withdrawal from some parts of Donbas – something Ukraine regards as inacceptable. Furthermore, negotiations over strategically significant sites such as Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant remain open ended, hampering any comprehensive agreement being signed off upon.
International reactions have been mixed to Reuters’ plan. While Western allies have welcomed its renewed push towards diplomatic solutions and stressed the significance of carefully balanced security guarantees that would prevent future aggression, many sceptics are doubtful as to whether Moscow will cooperate constructively given their long-standing territorial demands and strategic goals.
The Guardian
Zelensky’s peace plan proposes demilitarised zones as a practical measure to bridge entrenched positions. By opening up monitored zones and potentially shared economic arrangements in contested areas, his proposal seeks to reduce hostilities on the frontline and create conditions for further negotiations on an eventual settlement.
As Russian officials review the latest draft — with their response still outstanding — the world looks on closely. Success or failure of this initiative may have far-reaching ramifications not only for Ukraine but also European security and the larger international order. One pressing question remains about demilitarised zones as an effective peace mechanism that could help end this conflict: can demilitarized zones turn from diplomatic concept into lasting peace mechanism?