War

Demilitarized zone: a realistic scenario or a diplomatic utopia?

ANALYSIS FROM

The idea of creating a demilitarized zone in Ukraine, as described in the Bloomberg article, has sparked active discussions among experts and diplomats. According to Western sources, this scenario is seen as a potential step toward ending the war between Russia and Ukraine. However, military analysts emphasize the difficulty of its implementation, given the dynamics of the conflict and the position of Ukrainian society.

In an exclusive commentary, military expert, reserve colonel of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, pilot-instructor Roman Svitan explained why such a scenario looks unrealistic in the current situation. Read more in Komersant ukrainskyi.

Ukraine is facing new challenges and diplomatic prospects today. According to Bloomberg, NATO has begun discussing scenarios for ending Russia’s war against Ukraine. According to one of the sources, one of the possible options for a ceasefire is the creation of a demilitarized zone.

A senior NATO diplomat said that in this case, European troops would likely provide security and patrolling. At the same time, Roman Svitan believes that such a scenario does not correspond to the realities of modern warfare:

“This is an impossible scenario. We have 1,500 kilometers of frontline where two half-million-strong armies clash. The Ukrainian army is liberating its territory, and no one can order our military to stop fulfilling their oath to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country. Anyone who issues such an order will automatically become an enemy of Ukraine,” Roman Svitan

According to the expert, any attempt to implement such a scenario is technically impossible. A demilitarized zone can only be created outside the restored territory of Ukraine – along the 1991 state border with Russia.

“A demilitarized zone is possible only after the full restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and the destruction of the Russian army. Then it will be possible to deploy peacekeeping forces under the auspices of the United Nations along Ukraine’s border with Russia, or with the post-Russian republics. But this will happen only after our victory,” Svitan emphasized.

The expert noted that the Ukrainian people will not agree to the loss of territories, and politicians who decide to capitulate risk being isolated, as happened to Viktor Yanukovych.

Svitan also called the information about a possible demilitarization scenario an attempt to manipulate the media:

“It looks like talk of moving all of humanity to Mars. In the future, perhaps something like this will become real, but now it is absolutely unrealistic,” Roman Svitan

Currently, Ukraine is focused on regaining control over its entire territory. Any plans for a demilitarized zone can be considered only after this key goal is achieved, Svitan summarized.

Truce negotiations: realities and challenges

NATO is stepping up its efforts to supply weapons to Ukraine and is trying to at least provide the best conditions for Kyiv before possible ceasefire talks. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said in his speech:

“We must do more than just support Ukraine in its fight. We have to provide the kind of assistance that will change the course of this war once and for all.” – Mark Rutte

Despite the fact that Russian President Putin has not shown any willingness to discuss a ceasefire, Donald Trump’s return to the political arena has prompted the allies to consider options for keeping the war going in the long term. One of the possible scenarios includes the creation of a demilitarized zone that could be patrolled by European troops, Bloomberg writes.

NATO diplomats note that the situation at the front is becoming increasingly complicated, and economic and military pressure on Ukraine is growing. Western countries recognize the need to find diplomatic solutions to avoid a complete escalation.

I would add that President Zelenskyy emphasized that any agreements should be based on the full return of control over the territories within internationally recognized borders. At the same time, the Ukrainian leader noted that he accepts the need for a diplomatic settlement, even if it means the temporary loss of some territories.

This issue is becoming a key challenge for NATO, which is considering providing Ukraine with additional security guarantees. Zelenskyy is demanding guarantees that will protect Ukraine’s territories from further Russian aggression.

Long-term goals and the role of the West

Supplying weapons and training the Ukrainian military remains a priority for NATO. Western allies are working to create conditions under which peace talks will be more beneficial than continued hostilities.

While the situation at the front remains critical, Ukraine hopes to have the support of its partners to withstand the struggle for its independence and territorial integrity.

Author – Anastasia Fedor