‘Victory Plan’ fully prepared, says Zelenskiy

Zelenskiy confirms that comprehensive Victory Plan for lasting peace is ready ahead of talks with Joe Biden

KYIV:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced on Wednesday that his "Victory Plan," designed to secure peace for Ukraine while maintaining the nation's strength and preventing any "frozen conflicts," is now fully completed after extensive consultation.

Zelenskiy previously committed to presenting this plan to US President Joe Biden, likely next week during sessions of the UN Security Council and General Assembly.

While Zelenskiy has provided regular updates on the plan’s development, he has shared limited details about its content, only suggesting that it outlines conditions acceptable to Ukraine, which has been in conflict with Russia for over two and a half years.

In his nightly address, he stated, "Today, it can be said that our victory plan is fully prepared. All the points, key focus areas, and necessary detailed additions have been defined." He emphasised that determination is crucial to implementing the plan.

Zelenskiy insisted there is no alternative to peace, rejecting the idea of a "frozen conflict" or any manoeuvres that could merely delay Russian aggression. On Tuesday, after meeting with senior military commanders, he reported progress, highlighting "good and strong content" in military terms, which could substantially bolster Ukraine's position.

The foundation for the plan lies in a peace proposal Zelenskiy introduced in late 2022. This proposal demands the withdrawal of all Russian troops, the restoration of Ukraine's post-Soviet borders, and accountability for Russia’s invasion. The plan took centre stage at a "peace summit" held in Switzerland in June, where participants committed to holding a second summit later this year. Russia was not invited to the June summit and dismissed it as irrelevant, though Ukraine and its allies have indicated that Moscow may be invited to the next one.

Zelenskiy continues to reject any negotiations as long as Russian forces occupy nearly 20% of Ukraine’s territory. In contrast, Russia has expressed willingness to negotiate, but only if Ukrainian forces withdraw from the Kursk region, following Ukraine's recent incursion there.