Ukraine Proposes Global ‘Peace Summit’ for 2024

In a recent development, Ukraine has announced plans to host a global “peace summit” in February 2024, as stated by Ihor Zhovkva, a top diplomatic adviser to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. This announcement comes amid the ongoing war with Russia, now in its 21st month, and concerns in the West that the conflict in the Middle East is overshadowing Ukraine’s efforts to gain diplomatic support.

Building Diplomatic Momentum

Ukraine’s strategy involves garnering international support for President Zelenskiy’s 10-point “formula” for peace. This formula includes the restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, the withdrawal of Russian troops, and ensuring the safety of food and energy supplies, among other points. To this end, Ukraine has been engaging in talks with numerous countries, excluding Russia, with recent discussions taking place in Malta.

Fourth Meeting of National Security Advisers

According to Zhovkva, a fourth meeting of national security advisers is scheduled for late November or early December. This meeting is part of Ukraine’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to lay the groundwork for the proposed summit.

Challenges and Global Participation

While Ukraine is actively reaching out to governments in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, Western officials express concerns that the Middle East conflict might distract from Kyiv’s cause. However, Zhovkva pointed out that recent talks in Malta saw participation from countries like Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar, indicating sustained interest in Ukraine’s situation.

The Summit’s Significance

The summit is envisioned not just as a diplomatic event but as a significant step towards implementing Ukraine’s peace plan. “We don’t need the summit for the sake of the summit,” Zhovkva emphasized, highlighting the goal of involving leaders from the Global South and carefully considering the timing and location of the event.

Zelenskiy’s Diplomatic Engagements

President Zelenskiy is actively involved in preparing for the summit, having recently discussed the matter with the presidents of Indonesia and Paraguay. The objective is to expand the coalition supporting Ukraine’s stance against the Russian invasion, which started in February 2022 and has led to Russia occupying nearly a fifth of Ukraine’s territory.

Excluding Russia from Talks

Notably, these peace formula talks do not involve Russia, which has rejected Ukraine’s peace “formula” as unimplementable. Ukraine’s approach reflects its commitment to finding a resolution that aligns with its national sovereignty and international law, despite the complex geopolitical landscape.