US to urge Russia to recognize Ukraine right to maintain army: Reports
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The US is expected to press Russia to recognize Ukraine's right to its own military, seek control over Zaporizhzhia's energy output, and push for territorial concessions in peace talks.
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Ukrainian servicemen prepare a drone at a military training ground in the Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine, Wednesday, March 13, 2025 (AP)
The United States will press Russia to formally recognize Ukraine’s right to maintain its own armed forces and defense industry as part of any potential peace settlement, Bloomberg reported on Thursday, citing sources familiar with the discussions.
US special envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to raise the issue during an upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to individuals with knowledge of the confidential negotiations.
The proposal forms part of Washington’s broader stance in the ongoing US-Russia-Ukraine talks.
Washington seeks control over Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant output
Additionally, the Trump administration is reportedly seeking the return of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, currently under Russian control. According to Bloomberg, the United States aims to oversee the energy output from the facility for both Russia and Ukraine. However, these plans are still under development and may change, the report added.
Washington is also advocating for guaranteed Ukrainian access to the Dnieper River and the return of Russian-held territories in the Kharkov region. These territorial and economic aspects are being positioned as key components in any peace framework.
Putin-Witkoff meeting expected soon
A meeting between Putin and Witkoff could take place as early as Friday, Axios reported on Wednesday, citing a US official. The White House has confirmed that the US special envoy is scheduled to visit Russia this week.
This comes after Trump called for a rapid ceasefire agreement between Russia and Ukraine, underscoring rising frustration within his administration over what officials see as stalled and unproductive negotiations.
His remarks came shortly after Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a warning that the United States may pull out of the peace process if progress remains elusive.
"Yeah, very short," Trump said when asked to clarify expectations around a ceasefire timeline. "No specific number of days, but quickly. We want to get it done," he added, expressing confidence that a deal may be imminent.
Rubio had earlier stated that talks cannot continue indefinitely without clear signs of commitment from both Kiev and Moscow. "Move on," he said, referring to Washington's potential exit from its role as mediator if neither side shows good faith.
Read more: Trump expected to reveal Ukraine peace plan, including ceasefire
