Today (Monday 24th November), there were two encouraging developments towards a resolution of the Ukrainian/Russian conflict.
[1] A US/Ukraine joint statement put out 23rd Nov by the 'Office of the First Lady'.
"Both sides agreed the consultations were highly productive. The discussions showed meaningful progress toward aligning positions and identifying clear next steps. They reaffirmed that any future agreement must fully uphold Ukraine’s sovereignty and deliver a sustainable and just peace. As a result of the discussions, the parties drafted an updated and refined peace framework.
The Ukrainian delegation reaffirmed its gratitude for the steadfast commitment of the United States and, personally, President Donald J. Trump for their tireless efforts aimed at ending the war and the loss of life.
Ukraine and the United States agreed to continue intensive work on joint proposals in the coming days. They will also remain in close contact with their European partners as the process advances.
Final decisions under this framework will be made by the Presidents of Ukraine and the United States.
Both sides reiterated their readiness to continue working together to secure a peace that ensures Ukraine’s security, stability, and reconstruction."
[2] Reuters published (24th Nov.) the full text of the counter-proposal, drafted by Europe's E3 powers (Britain, France and Germany,) This counter proposal takes as its basis the 28-point U.S. plan (Seen by Reuters on Sunday 23rd), but then goes through it point by point with suggested changes (and deletions). This, among other things, raises the size of the permitted peace-time Ukrainian army from 600,000 to 800,000, and adds detail to the way the reconstruction of Ukraine is to be financed.
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