“Victory Plan”… European Criticism Disrupts Zelensky

21st October 2024

2 minutes read

"Victory Plan"... European Criticism Disrupts Zelensky

The “Victory Plan” is a title frequently repeated in speeches by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, without offering clear details about the content of this plan.

Zelensky took advantage of the recent European Union leaders’ summit in Brussels to present his plan for victory in the war against Russia. He emphasized that Ukraine must be in a position of strength before engaging in any peace talks with Russia.

The Hardest Work

Zelensky expressed frustration over repeated criticisms of his plan. In response to journalists’ questions about the criticism that his “Victory Plan” focuses only on what allies can do for Ukraine without detailing what Ukraine itself will do, Zelensky said, “As for the Victory Plan: first, it was not designed to be presented to critics, but it is a plan to make Ukraine stronger. I believe this plan does not depend on Russia’s will but only on the will of our partners.” He added that “the Victory Plan was not made to be judged by critics but is a plan aimed at strengthening Ukraine.”

When asked about Kyiv’s role in this plan, Zelensky confirmed that “Ukraine is already doing the hardest work, which is defending Europe’s freedom,” as he put it.

On October 16, Zelensky presented what he calls the “Victory Plan” to the Ukrainian Parliament. The document contains five points and three additional secret annexes, including Ukraine’s call to join NATO at a later date, lifting restrictions on long-range weapon strikes on Russian territory, and deploying a comprehensive non-nuclear deterrence force in Ukraine to “deter” Russia. He emphasized that implementing the plan “depends on the partners.”

For his part, Russian President Vladimir Putin presented initiatives in June for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine. These included an immediate ceasefire and readiness for negotiations, provided that Ukrainian forces withdraw from the newly Russian territories.

Putin added that “Kyiv must abandon its intentions to join NATO, demilitarize, and denazify,” as well as accept a neutral, nuclear-free status.

What is Ukraine Doing?

This plan has faced widespread criticism, especially since it does not provide a clear definition of victory.

Zelensky himself could not provide a specific answer when asked about it last Sunday. Some observers believe the plan focuses more on what allies can do for Ukraine without clarifying what Ukraine will do itself, according to Western media.

Zelensky continues to promote his “Victory Plan” alongside the “Peace Formula” he proposed in November 2022 at the G20 summit in Indonesia, a proposal Russia rejected.