On Wednesday, 16 October 2024, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky presented his “Victory Plan” before the Verkhovna Rada (the Ukrainian parliament). The plan, consisting of five main points and three confidential appendices, was a clear call for strategic collaboration with Ukraine’s international partners and a roadmap for securing a decisive end to the conflict with Russia. The President’s speech was marked by a tone of determination, underscoring the nation’s aspirations to not just defend its sovereignty, but also to reshape the post-war European security landscape.
Zelensky highlighted that the success of this plan hinges not on Russia, but on Ukraine’s partnerships with Western nations. He was particularly emphatic about the need to change the course of the war by forcing Russia into a position where it would have no choice but to negotiate peace.
He also pointed out that Russian President Vladimir Putin has become increasingly isolated and obsessed with continuing the conflict, describing him as “deaf to all others.”
The Victory Plan is structured around five key points:
- Immediate NATO Invitation
Zelensky stressed that the first and most important point is for Ukraine to be granted immediate membership in NATO. He underlined the necessity of a clear commitment from Ukraine’s allies about its place in the security architecture of Europe, suggesting that this would not only secure Ukraine’s future but also contribute to regional stability. - Strengthening Ukraine’s Defence
The second point revolves around reinforcing Ukraine’s military capabilities, with a view to turning the tide of the war back toward Russia. This element of the plan includes a confidential appendix, the details of which remain undisclosed. Zelensky hinted that part of this effort involves taking the conflict back onto Russian territory, a move likely intended to push back against the aggressor in a more aggressive and assertive manner. - Deterrence of Russian Aggression
In this phase of the plan, Ukraine proposes the deployment of a non-nuclear deterrence package on its territory. Zelensky explained that the proposal, which includes a second classified appendix, has already been shared with the leadership of key nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Italy. This measure is aimed at preventing further Russian military actions by enhancing Ukraine’s strategic deterrence capabilities. - Boosting Ukraine’s Strategic and Economic Potential
The fourth point concerns Ukraine’s long-term economic strategy and partnerships with its allies, particularly the United States and the European Union. This component also includes a classified annex, which involves a formal agreement between Ukraine and its Western partners. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine’s economic revival and its ability to withstand future threats depend on solid international support. - Post-War European Security Role
The final point in the Victory Plan is focused on the post-war period, outlining a vision where Ukraine would take on a central role in ensuring Europe’s security. Zelensky suggested that Ukrainian troops could eventually replace American forces stationed in Europe, thus easing the burden on NATO and ensuring continued stability in the region. This proposal indicates a desire for Ukraine to transition from a war-torn nation into a cornerstone of European defence strategy.
Key Figures Present at the Speech
Zelensky’s presentation was attended by several high-ranking officials, both from Ukraine’s government and the military. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Yuliya Svyrydenko, and Minister of Defence Rustem Umerov were present alongside military leaders, including General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, and Kyrylo Budanov, Chief of Defence Intelligence.
The presence of these officials highlights the gravity of the occasion, as well as the wide-ranging support for Zelensky’s plan across the government and military establishment.
Confidential Appendices
While Zelensky openly discussed the five main pillars of the plan, he also revealed that three of the points include classified addendums. The precise details of these documents have been shared only with Ukraine’s closest allies, such as the United States and the European Union.
These confidential additions likely pertain to sensitive military and strategic issues that are central to Ukraine’s ongoing war effort and future security architecture.
Next Steps
Following the presentation in parliament, a meeting was scheduled between Zelensky, parliamentary leaders, and the heads of various parliamentary factions and groups. This gathering is expected to focus on aligning Ukraine’s legislative efforts with the ambitious goals set out in the Victory Plan.
The plan, which relies heavily on international cooperation, places Ukraine at the centre of ongoing geopolitical discussions about European security, with a clear message: peace will not come from Russian concessions but through coordinated strength and action from Ukraine and its allies.
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