The United States See Zelenskyy’s Idea of Holding a Referendum on a Peace Deal as Progress – Axios

The United States of America consider the statement by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about the possible holding of a referendum on a peace agreement, which предусматривает the transfer of part of Ukrainian territory, to be a sign of progress. This was stated by a senior U.S. official, reports NewsToday24 citing Axios. According to the official, Zelenskyy said in his public remarks on Thursday that the issue of the fairness of any possible compromises should be decided by the people of Ukraine through a referendum or elections.

“This is an important step toward a transparent discussion of peace agreements,” a White House representative emphasized.

It should be recalled that Russia insists on controlling the entire Donbas, despite the fact that approximately 14 percent of the region’s territory currently remains under Ukrainian control. The United States included this Russian demand in its plan, while at the same time proposing that the disputed territory become a demilitarized zone.

However, Zelenskyy expressed skepticism regarding the U.S. proposal to create a “free economic zone” in the Donbas and called for clarifications on other aspects of the agreement. A White House representative added that European partners have also stated their readiness to support holding a referendum if Zelenskyy makes such a decision.

Holding such a vote under the current conditions would be a very difficult task. Nevertheless, according to the U.S. official, Europeans said during a meeting on Friday that if Zelenskyy proposes a referendum on territorial issues, they will support it.

Peace Plan

The initial U.S. peace plan, which consisted of 28 points and effectively reflected Russia’s positions, was unacceptable to Ukraine and its European partners. After consultations, the document was reduced to 20 points and amended to make it more acceptable to Kyiv.

The most difficult issue remains the question of territories. Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine will not agree to transfer any part of its land. Kyiv has already sent the United States an updated response with proposals to resolve disputed issues, but a final, agreed package of documents has not yet been reached.

It has also become known that U.S. President’s special envoy Steve Witkoff will meet in Berlin with European leaders and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The meeting is of key importance amid the White House’s efforts to achieve peace in Ukraine.

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