There are considerable differences between the United States and Ukraine regarding the framework of the peace agreement with Russia. The key sticking points remain security guarantees for Ukraine and the US stance on Crimea.

Source: CNN referencing information from the Ukrainian government familiar with both versions of the agreement.

Details: According to the source, the positions of the US and Ukraine are fundamentally opposed on critical aspects concerning the future peace agreement to end the war.

Ukraine insists on receiving security guarantees not only from European countries but also from the US, whereas the initial American proposal suggested that reliable security assurances would come solely from Europe.

Additionally, the US proposal to recognize Russian control over Crimea is completely unacceptable for Ukraine.

Ukraine also stresses the need to discuss the issue of territories occupied by Russia since the invasion began in 2022 after a ceasefire is reached.

Ukraine's counterproposal, which has also been supported by France, the UK, and Germany, was presented to Donald Trump's representative on Ukrainian matters, Kurt Volker. It calls for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire from both sides, which is a primary requirement of Kyiv before any other actions can take place.

Specifically: "At the same time, Ukraine generally agreed to several provisions of the initial American plan, including: a gradual lifting of sanctions against Russia imposed since 2014 after the implementation of the peace plan; Ukraine's renunciation of NATO membership; freezing of the frontline; and regaining control over the territory surrounding the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant."

Details: Although differences remain, the steps taken by Ukraine for effective participation in negotiations are significant, Ukrainian officials noted.

"The fact that Ukraine is willing to discuss territorial issues is a huge step. But if Trump does not see this as a meaningful concession, then that is a problem," the source said.

Background:

• President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on April 25 that Ukraine needs strong security guarantees from the US similar to those of Israel – on land, in the air, and at sea.
• Earlier, media reported that the Trump administration handed Ukraine a one-page document in Paris, presented as a "final proposal" for a peaceful resolution. Among other things, the US is ready to recognize Russian control over Crimea and ease sanctions against Moscow.
• President Volodymyr Zelensky mentioned on April 24 that the US proposed its strategy regarding Ukraine's territories during negotiations in London; however, according to him, after the US proposal, "another paper emerged".