Test of intentions

Ukraine's latest peace proposal marks a subtle but significant shift in how Kyiv is trying to end a war that has long defied clean diplomatic solutions.

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Rather than framing peace as a binary choice between territorial integrity and continued fighting, the plan advances a more ambiguous idea: deescalation without surrender. In doing so, it exposes both the limits of compromise and the deeper strategic contest that still defines the conflict.

At the centre of the proposal is the concept of demilitarised or economically neutral zones in eastern Ukraine, particularly in parts of Donbas still under Ukrainian control. This is not an offer to redraw borders or legitimise occupation. Instead, it suggests a managed reduction of military presence, matched on both sides, while retaining Ukrainian administration and policing. The logic is clear. Kyiv is signalling flexibility on how territory is defended, but not on who owns or governs it.