In a significant development that could pave the way for de-escalation and a potential end to the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has signaled its readiness to establish a demilitarized buffer zone in the Donbas region. This proposal comes from a high-ranking member of the Ukrainian negotiation team, highlighting Kyiv’s proactive approach to finding a peaceful resolution.
Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine and a key participant in the negotiations, confirmed that Kyiv agrees to the creation of such a zone. Podolyak elaborated that this demilitarized area would be crucial in separating the opposing forces and would need to extend along both sides of the current front line. This bilateral approach aims to create a genuine buffer, reducing the chances of direct engagements.
A critical point of discussion, as outlined by Podolyak, will be the specifics of weapon withdrawal. Negotiators must determine “whether to withdraw all types of weapons or only heavy weapons.” The scope of this withdrawal will undoubtedly shape the effectiveness and security of the proposed zone.
Podolyak emphasized that this strategic move is considered a logical pathway to bringing the protracted conflict to a close. However, Kyiv’s agreement comes with a non-negotiable condition: the mandatory presence of a foreign contingent and international monitoring missions within the demilitarized zone. This stipulation underscores Ukraine’s commitment to ensuring the zone’s neutrality, compliance with agreements, and the safety of the civilian population.
This proposal represents a concrete step towards fostering trust and de-escalation, offering a glimmer of hope for a more stable future in Donbas. The details of implementation and the international community’s role will be pivotal in turning this vision into a lasting reality.
Source: Original Article
