Media reports: the USA proposes partial relaxation of sanctions and leaving occupied territories under Moscow’s control in a “peace plan”
The United States of America has announced its own initiatives for resolving the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which have already become the subject of international discussions. According to sources within the European Union and analytical agencies, Washington is proposing bold steps that envisage not only a diplomatic freeze on the war but also significant easing of sanctions against the Kremlin if a long-term ceasefire regime is achieved on Ukrainian territory. Based on information received from Bloomberg sources, the US presented this concept to its European allies on the eve of April 17 in Paris, during a series of closed-door negotiations. The idea is that Russian troops and occupied territories will remain under Moscow's control, and the war will essentially be frozen without final resolution of the issues of illegal annexation and the status of the occupied regions. American officials believe that this approach would help reduce tension on the front lines in the future and prevent escalation of the conflict. Details of the proposal also include the removal or substantial easing of economic sanctions, which currently severely impact Russia's economy and, consequently, its military potential. However, it should be noted that the American diplomats' plan excludes discussions of Ukraine's NATO membership, a contentious issue that raises concerns in Kyiv and among other allies. Security experts warn that achieving a position that satisfies all parties is unlikely without Moscow agreeing to cease hostilities and begin a dialogue on future peace. US officials emphasize that any diplomatic efforts will be "ineffective" if Russian troops do not abandon their aggression. Additionally, during such negotiations, Ukraine must receive guaranteed security and support to restore its independence. Another important aspect is the position of European allies. According to anonymous Bloomberg sources, Ukraine’s priorities remain far from those proposed by the US and take into account Moscow's interests in preserving the occupied territories, which causes significant tension and is being debated at the highest levels. There are concerns that such decisions will again delay Ukraine’s sovereignty restoration and reduce the chances of regaining control over occupied regions. Amid these developments, on April 18, the US issued a statement from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, stating that current President Donald Trump will cease any attempts to negotiate peace if there are doubts about the chances of success. In response, the Kremlin emphasized that they have already made some progress in resolving the situation and noted the remaining obstacles. Meanwhile, US Vice President Joe Biden tried to assure that Washington remains open to diplomatic resolution and believes in achieving peace to end the "brutal conflict." In turn, US President Donald Trump highlighted news that Russia is expected to soon send Washington a response to the peace proposal, which gives hope for further diplomatic steps. At the same time, the ongoing military conflict remains highly complex and contentious, sparking debates in political circles and casting doubt not only on Ukraine’s future but also on the balance of power in Europe and the world. Overall, recent reports indicate an active intensification of diplomatic efforts and the search for compromise solutions; however, prospects for achieving an inclusive and just peace remain very uncertain due to significant political and strategic interests of all conflict participants.