Ukraine and Russia discussed a new proposal to create a demilitarized zone in eastern Ukraine during the latest negotiations in Geneva. This territory would remain outside the control of both armies. The initiative aims to resolve the primary deadlock in peace talks regarding the control over the occupied Ukrainian lands.
The New York Times reported this development, citing sources familiar with the matter. Russia demands the full transfer of the Donetsk region as a condition for ending the full-scale war. Ukraine refuses any unilateral withdrawal of its forces. Kyiv maintains that territorial concessions will only encourage further Russian aggression. Therefore, Ukraine demands firm international security guarantees to prevent future attacks.
Details of the demilitarization proposal
The proposal for a neutral zone revives elements of the 28-point plan suggested by Donald Trump’s administration in November 2025. Negotiators also explored the possibility of establishing a free trade area within the demilitarized territory. However, experts note that industrial potential in the region is currently minimal. Most factories are in ruins, and only one coal mine remains operational.
The management of the demilitarized zone remains a significant point of contention. Ukraine insists on the deployment of international peacekeeping forces. In contrast, Vladimir Putin’s advisor Yuri Ushakov stated that Russia might only agree if Russian police or national guard units patrol the area. While officials discussed forming a joint civilian administration, a final agreement remains distant.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has consistently warned against ceding territory for peace. He stated that allowing the aggressor to seize land is a grave mistake. Currently, negotiators are working on the sequence of steps, including security guarantees and post-war reconstruction funding.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that Volodymyr Zelenskyy assessed the Geneva talks, noting the existence of significant political differences.
