The article discusses the ongoing negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, facilitated by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. The negotiations aim to secure guarantees for Kyiv, including a ceasefire, demilitarization, and territorial concessions.
Key points from the article include:
1. **US proposal**: The U.S. is reportedly pushing for a deal that would grant Ukraine control over the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, occupied by Russian forces since 2022, and place it under U.S. oversight to supply power to cities on both sides of the front line.
2. **Guarantees**: The negotiations are focused on securing guarantees for Kyiv, including a ceasefire, demilitarization, and territorial concessions.
3. **Russian demands**: Russia’s war aims include Ukraine’s demilitarization, which would directly challenge this demand.
4. **Ukraine pressure**: Ukraine is under pressure to respond to the U.S. peace plan, presented in Paris on April 17, which includes recognition of Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea and a ban on Ukraine joining NATO.
5. **Criticism**: Witkoff has faced criticism from US and Ukrainian officials for supporting proposals seen as favorable to the Kremlin.
Additionally, the article reports on the return of the body of Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna, who died after torture in Russian captivity.
Key points about Viktoriia Roshchyna include:
1. **Death**: Roshchyna was confirmed dead on October 10, 2024.
2. **Torture**: She was tortured with electric shocks while in Russian captivity.
3. **Body return**: Her body was returned to Ukraine in late February, but the announcement was delayed due to uncertainty about her identity.
4. **Investigation**: The circumstances of her death are still under investigation.
The article concludes by stating that the negotiations between Russia and Ukraine come as Ukraine remains under pressure to respond to a broader U.S. peace plan.
