Petro Poroshenko, the former President of Ukraine and current leader of the European Solidarity Party, proposed a bold plan to end the ongoing conflict with Russia within 24 hours. During a visit to Washington, D.C., where he participated in the annual forum of the International Democrat Union, an alliance of center-right political parties, Poroshenko shared his vision with Voice of America (VOA).
While in Washington, Poroshenko met with officials from President Biden’s administration and members of the incoming Trump administration, offering his assessment of the situation in Ukraine and how the war could be concluded.
Poroshenko’s Perspective on the Frontlines
Poroshenko, who regularly visits the frontlines of the war, provided insight into the situation, describing the increasing pressure from Russia, which has more sophisticated weapons compared to six months ago. Ukrainian forces, while exhausted after over two years of continuous fighting, are still managing to prevent Russia from breaking Ukrainian defensive lines. He emphasized the importance of strengthening fortifications, mining fields, and using modern weaponry and drones to defend positions effectively.
Calls for Negotiations and Strategy
Despite the mounting pressure for Ukraine to begin negotiations, Poroshenko stressed that peace talks should only start when both sides are ready. He noted that while Ukraine is eager for peace, Russian President Vladimir Putin is not yet prepared for meaningful negotiations. According to Poroshenko, Ukraine must continue to strengthen its military position to increase pressure on Putin, making him feel the cost of the war. He called for stronger sanctions on Russia to further damage its ability to finance the conflict.
Support from the New Trump Administration
Poroshenko expressed optimism that the incoming Trump administration would support his vision for Ukraine. Reflecting on his past collaboration with Trump, particularly the provision of Javelin missiles to Ukraine, he stated that Trump was a “person of results” who was willing to make difficult decisions. He also welcomed Trump’s appointment of General Keith Kellogg as the U.S. special representative for Ukraine and Russia, viewing it as a positive step.
Poroshenko’s Plan: Ending the War in 24 Hours
Poroshenko proposed a specific plan to end the war quickly, claiming it could be achieved within 24 hours with no shots fired or additional funds spent. The key to this, he said, would be Ukraine’s invitation to join NATO, sending a powerful message to Putin that Ukraine will not be intimidated by Russian threats. He suggested that the Washington Treaty could serve as a basis for a rapid resolution, offering Ukraine a clear security guarantee.
His “Poroshenko Plan” involves Ukraine being granted full NATO membership within a year, provided it meets certain conditions. During this transitional year, Ukraine would receive the same security guarantees as Finland and Sweden before their full NATO membership. Additionally, Poroshenko suggested the deployment of peacekeeping forces under a UN Security Council mandate to ensure a ceasefire and prevent further violence.
