Intensive diplomatic efforts continue between the United States and Ukraine to lay the groundwork for ending the Russian war and ensuring Ukraine's future as a sovereign and independent state. In this context, bilateral talks and agreements between Washington and Kyiv are the cornerstone of a strategy aimed at strengthening Ukraine's position militarily and diplomatically, and charting a clear path toward a just and lasting peace.
Background of the conflict and US support
Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the United States has emerged as Kyiv’s strongest supporter, providing billions of dollars in military, financial, and humanitarian aid. This support has not been limited to material assistance, but has extended to leading an international coalition to impose stringent economic sanctions on Russia and isolate it diplomatically. These efforts are part of a broader historical context dating back to 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea and supported separatists in eastern Ukraine, in flagrant violation of international law and Ukraine’s sovereignty.
The importance of the bilateral security agreement
The strategic partnership between the two countries was recently crowned with the signing of a long-term bilateral security agreement. This ten-year agreement is not a substitute for NATO membership, but rather a stepping stone to it, providing tangible security guarantees for Ukraine. The agreement stipulates the United States' commitment to assisting Ukraine in developing its defense capabilities, modernizing its military, strengthening its defense industry, and sharing intelligence. It also includes a mechanism for immediate consultation at the highest levels in the event of a future armed attack on Ukraine, with the aim of determining the next steps and providing the necessary support. This agreement sends a clear message to Moscow that American support for Ukraine is a long-term and unwavering commitment.
Ukraine's "peace formula" and the international role
On the diplomatic front, Washington strongly supports the 10-point “peace formula” proposed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Based on the principles of the UN Charter, this plan calls for the complete withdrawal of Russian forces from all internationally recognized Ukrainian territory, the restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, accountability for war crimes, and guarantees of nuclear and food security. The formula has garnered broad international support, and the United States is working with its allies to garner further support through international conferences aimed at building a global consensus on the foundations of a just peace. The significance of these initiatives lies in their positioning Ukraine to dictate the terms for ending the war, rather than imposing settlements that could compromise its sovereignty.
Future impact on regional and international security
The results of these joint efforts will not only determine the future of Ukraine but will also reshape the security architecture of the entire European Union. Ukraine's success in repelling aggression and preserving its independence, with the support of its international partners, will reinforce the principle that borders cannot be changed by force and will serve as a deterrent to any future acts of aggression in the region. In the long term, this partnership aims to fully integrate Ukraine into European and Euro-Atlantic institutions, ensuring its stability and prosperity and contributing to the strengthening of collective security at the international level.
