In a high-stakes diplomatic maneuver, the United States has presented Ukraine with what officials are calling a “platinum” offer of security guarantees NATO-style protections designed to prevent future Russian aggression. But there’s a catch: the offer may not last forever.
According to reports from The Telegraph, U.S. officials delivered an ultimatum to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during peace talks in Germany on Monday: accept the offer now or risk losing these unprecedented guarantees. While the specifics remain confidential, sources claim that about 90% of a potential peace agreement between Kyiv and Moscow has already been tentatively agreed upon.
The U.S. describes the proposal as a “platinum standard” deal, with both Ukraine and European leaders reportedly satisfied with the strength of the guarantees. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz praised the plan as “really remarkable,” while Zelensky confirmed that the U.S. guarantees would align with NATO’s Article 5 principle, where an attack on one is considered an attack on all.
President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the deal, stating that a resolution is “closer than ever,” despite lingering disagreements over territorial concessions, including a proposed “50-50” split of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. European officials see the offer as a major win for both Ukraine and Europe, emphasizing strong deterrence, advanced military support, and legal guarantees.
Trump is confident he can persuade Russian President Vladimir Putin to accept the U.S. proposals, aiming to end nearly four years of brutal conflict. Yet, some experts, including the new head of MI6, Blaise Metreweli, accuse Putin of dragging out negotiations to pressure Ukraine and challenge NATO members.
Before the Berlin talks, Zelensky signaled willingness to forgo NATO membership if legally binding security guarantees were provided. However, a major sticking point remains: the U.S. has reportedly insisted that Ukraine withdraw troops from eastern Donbas, a move Zelensky has consistently rejected.
The coming days could prove pivotal, as Ukraine weighs whether to accept the U.S. “platinum” offer or risk losing a rare chance at strong, legally backed security assurances.
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