The 20-Point Plan: Zelensky Proposes Demilitarized Zones and NATO-Style Guarantees to End Conflict

President Volodymyr Zelensky has unveiled an updated peace roadmap, developed in collaboration with U.S. envoys in Florida, aiming to resolve the nearly four-year-old war. The 20-point plan introduces the concept of a "Free Economic Zone" or Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in parts of Donetsk. Under this proposal, Ukrainian and Russian heavy forces would withdraw symmetrically (up to 40km) from the current front line, while maintaining Ukrainian administrative and police control supported by international monitors.

The plan secures robust security guarantees akin to NATO's Article 5 and authorizes a peacetime standing army of 800,000 troops. It also outlines a definitive path for EU membership and a $200 billion investment fund for reconstruction. Zelensky expressed confidence that President Donald Trump's involvement makes the plan difficult for the Kremlin to reject, noting that obstruction by Moscow could trigger massive U.S. military aid and maximum sanctions.