US pushes demilitarized zone plan on Ukraine — Kyiv’s position uncertain

While Kellogg expressed confidence that Ukraine is ready to commit to the idea of a demilitarized zone, no Ukrainian official has publicly commented on the proposal — or on its resemblance to the widely criticized buffer zone established under the Minsk accords before the full-scale invasion.

The plan would require Ukrainian forces to pull back 15 kilometers from the front line, with Russian troops expected to do the same.

"They are ready to create a demilitarized zone for a certain period," Kellogg claimed, speaking on behalf of Ukraine.

"In fact, they said: we withdraw by 15 kilometers, and you, the Russians, withdraw by 15 kilometers as well. So a 30-kilometer zone is created, which is closely monitored. It will be possible to observe whether there are any violations."

Kellogg framed the suggestion as a practical step toward de-escalation and cited historical examples of political change — from the post–World War II Baltic states to German reunification — as evidence that current lines of division may not be permanent.

Kellogg added that establishing a 30-day ceasefire — which could later be extended — would be crucial, and said he "believes in the idea".

"As a soldier, I will say: it is very hard to restart a conflict once hostilities have ceased. And I don’t think they will fight again," Kellogg claimed.

The US special envoy believes Ukraine is now in "a fairly good position."

Back in February 2025, members of the US Congress said that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin had allegedly rejected the idea of creating a demilitarized zone.