Anna Hartz
U.S. Proposes New Plan to End Russia-Ukraine War
In recent months, pressure has been building for a breakthrough in the war between Russia and Ukraine.
Both sides have suffered heavy losses. Millions have been displaced. The world is watching closely to see whether new peace efforts will lead to real change.
Now, a high-level meeting in Moscow may be the most serious attempt yet to bring the conflict closer to an end.
An Offer to Keep the Territory
U.S. presidential envoy Steve Witkoff met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday. He brought with him a new peace proposal from the Trump administration, reports WP.
The plan was created with input from European leaders. The meeting was described by Trump as “very productive.” He said it led to “significant progress.”
The proposal does not promise that NATO will stop expanding. It also does not include any agreement to stop U.S. military aid to Ukraine.
Instead, the offer would allow Russia to keep the territory it has taken so far. The issue of official recognition would be postponed for several decades—either 49 or 99 years.
In return, Russia would agree to a ceasefire. The U.S. would also remove many sanctions on Moscow.
The deal suggests that energy cooperation with Russia could resume over time. This includes the possible return of oil and gas imports.
“A Fair Ending”?
Trump gave Putin until Friday, August 8, to accept the offer. If not, the U.S. will begin enforcing strict secondary sanctions.
After the meeting, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the war must end in a way that is fair.
He spoke with Trump by phone. European leaders joined the call. Trump said he is open to holding talks with both Zelensky and Putin if progress continues.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said there is hope for at least a suspension of fighting.
Czech President Petr Pavel told the BBC that giving up some Ukrainian land might be a price worth paying to stop the war.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the talks in Moscow were a step forward. But he added, “There’s still a lot of work to do.”
