The United States and Russia are discussing a three-stage peace plan for Ukraine, according to multiple foreign diplomatic sources.
The reported proposal includes a ceasefire, new elections in Ukraine, and the signing of a final agreement. These discussions are said to be taking place during ongoing talks in Saudi Arabia.
According to diplomatic sources cited by Fox News, Washington and Moscow view new elections in Ukraine as a crucial element for the settlement process. However, subsequent clarifications indicate that this aspect was largely pushed by Russia and is not currently a formal part of negotiations.
🚨NEWS w/ @NanaSajaia – US/Russia 3 stage peace proposal would force new Ukraine elections: foreign diplomatic sources
The US and Russia are proposing a three-stage peace plan, according to multiple foreign diplomatic sources close to the talks in Saudi Arabia. The plan includes…
— Jacqui Heinrich (@JacquiHeinrich) February 18, 2025
A US official familiar with the negotiations has downplayed the election aspect, stating that while it is being “floated,” it is not currently central to the discussions. The White House has not yet commented on these reports but is expected to issue a statement soon.
Ukrainian Position
Ukrainian officials have rejected the notion that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s popularity is too low to secure re-election, even in the absence of Russian interference. Kyiv also disputes any suggestion that the country would be willing to accept a Russian-backed candidate. Reports indicate that Zelenskyy’s refusal to sign any agreements at the recent Munich Security Conference underscores Ukraine’s position on maintaining sovereignty in political decision-making.
Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Russian President Vladimir Putin believes the chances of electing a pro-Moscow leader in Ukraine are significant. Furthermore, multiple sources claim that US President Donald Trump is prepared to accept any election outcome, including the possibility of a pro-Russian administration in Kyiv. They assert that both Putin and Trump consider Zelenskyy’s chances of re-election to be low.
Political and Diplomatic Implications
If accurate, these reports indicate a major shift in the dynamics of potential peace talks. A ceasefire alone would mark a significant development, but the inclusion of elections as a precondition could prove divisive both within Ukraine and among its allies. Many in Ukraine view such proposals with suspicion, considering them an attempt to install a government more amenable to Moscow’s demands.
The notion of internationally brokered elections in wartime conditions also raises logistical and security concerns. Holding free and fair elections while parts of Ukraine remain under Russian occupation presents a considerable challenge. Additionally, given Russia’s history of electoral interference, any vote held under these circumstances would likely face intense scrutiny.
Following recent US-Russia meetings, both sides reportedly agreed to “eliminate irritants in bilateral relations” and continue working on preparations for negotiations on Russia’s war against Ukraine.
US Position Unclear
The Trump administration’s stance on this reported proposal remains uncertain. While sources suggest that discussions are ongoing, US officials have not publicly endorsed or rejected the election aspect of the plan. The absence of a clear statement from the White House leaves room for speculation over whether the proposal reflects serious negotiations or remains a theoretical scenario being tested within diplomatic circles.