In a controversial statement, Lt Gen Keith Kellogg, former US special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, proposed that Ukraine could be divided similarly to post-war Berlin, suggesting an arrangement involving British and French forces overseeing the western regions while allowing Russia to maintain control in the east. This partitioning would see Ukrainian troops and a demilitarised zone acting as a buffer between the two sides.
Kellogg’s plan, conveyed in an interview with The Times, entails the establishment of a non-provocative Anglo-French reassurance force west of the Dnipro River. He explained that while Ukraine could serve as a space for various militaries to oversee a ceasefire, the suggestion raises concerns regarding Ukraine’s territorial integrity, especially about the fate of eastern regions under Russian rule.
The outline of a potential demilitarised zone extending 18 miles along current control lines has been proposed, although Kellogg noted that the US would abstain from deploying ground troops. Nevertheless, the Kremlin has firmly stated it will not accept peacekeeping forces from NATO nations in Ukraine.
Amid rising tensions and accusations against President Putin for stalling ceasefire agreements, the White House indicated confidence in leveraging dialogue to pursue peace, with Karoline Leavitt affirming the administration’s commitment to negotiate. Meanwhile, Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff engaged in lengthy discussions with Putin in St Petersburg, as efforts to end the war gain momentum, despite the Kremlin’s apparent disinterest in meaningful negotiations.
US envoy Lt Gen Keith Kellogg suggested Ukraine could be divided like Berlin post-World War II, with UK and French forces in the west and Russia in the east. A demilitarised zone could be established, but Russia’s opposition to NATO peacekeepers complicates the situation. The White House expresses confidence in negotiating a ceasefire, despite the Kremlin’s reluctance for serious talks.
Lt Gen Keith Kellogg’s proposition for partitioning Ukraine resembles post-war Berlin, raising substantial questions regarding the region’s future stability and territorial integrity. While plans to establish multinational forces and demilitarised zones unfold, the challenge of Russian acceptance remains critical. The White House’s assertion of negotiating leverage underscores a continued belief in achieving peace, despite obstacles from the Kremlin.
Original Source: m.independent.ie
