**US Pushes for Ukraine’s Right to Maintain Armed Forces in Peace Talks**
The United States is set to demand that Russia recognize Ukraine’s sovereign right to maintain a strong armed forces and defense industry as part of any peace agreement. This move directly challenges one of the Kremlin’s key goals – Ukraine’s demilitarization – and is part of a broader effort to secure guarantees for Kyiv.
According to reports from Bloomberg, the US will also insist that Russia returns the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant to Ukrainian control. The plant has been occupied by Russian forces since 2022, and under US oversight, it would supply power to cities on both sides of the front line. Additionally, the US wants Ukraine to have a secure passage across the Dnipro River and for Russia-occupied territory in Kharkiv Oblast to be returned to Ukrainian control.
These demands come as Ukraine faces pressure to respond to a broader US peace plan presented in Paris last week. The plan includes US recognition of Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea, which is a long-standing Kremlin demand. However, President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected any deal that involves territorial concessions, saying it would violate Ukraine’s Constitution.
**Ukraine Resists Territorial Concessions**
President Zelensky’s stance has been echoed by some US officials, who have criticized the Trump administration for supporting proposals seen as favorable to Russia. The Trump administration’s Middle East envoy, Witkoff, has faced criticism for meeting with Putin multiple times this year and promoting ideas that are perceived as giving too much ground to Moscow.
**Russia Continues Aggressive Posture**
Despite the ongoing peace talks, Russia continues to demonstrate an aggressive posture towards Ukraine. On April 24, Russian forces launched deadly missile strikes on Kyiv, killing at least 12 civilians and injuring 90. US President Donald Trump responded by calling the attacks “not necessary” and “poorly timed,” but stopped short of condemning Russia or threatening consequences.
**US-Funded Ceasefire Remains in Place**
Ukraine had accepted a 30-day ceasefire proposed by the US, contingent on Russia’s agreement. However, Moscow has refused to comply with this proposal. The ongoing ceasefire remains in place, despite the lack of progress towards a lasting peace deal.
As the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate, it remains to be seen how these latest demands from the US will affect the negotiations and ultimately impact Ukraine’s sovereignty.
