"War could end next year": Zelenskyy lays out Victory Plan to parliament

This was stated in the President’s address.

Zelenskyy emphasized that if Ukraine's allies start acting on the Victory Plan now, the war with Russia could be over by next year.

“If Putin succeeds in achieving his delusional goals — whether geopolitical, military, ideological, or economic — it will send a dangerous message to other potential aggressors, especially in the Gulf, the Indo-Pacific, and Africa, that wars of aggression can pay off," the President warned.

During the speech, members of parliament and military leaders were in attendance, including Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi, intelligence head Kyrylo Budanov, and Security Service chief Vasyl Malyuk.

Points of the Victory Plan

The President shared that the Victory Plan has five key points. The first is geopolitical, while the second and third focus on military strategies. The fourth covers economic matters, and the fifth is centered on security. He also mentioned that the timing of these points is strategic.

The first point of the Victory Plan is to bring Ukraine into NATO. According to Zelenskyy, this move would be a cornerstone for peace.

"We understand that NATO membership is a future goal, not an immediate one. But Putin must see that his geopolitical game is falling apart. Russians need to feel that their leader has lost on the geopolitical front," Zelenskyy said.

The second point of the Victory Plan is defense. Zelenskyy believes it's essential to take the fight to Russian soil so that Russians experience the war firsthand and, despite the propaganda, start resenting the Kremlin.

He also highlighted that Ukraine has a clear list of weapons that will continue to bolster the strength of its soldiers. He pointed out that, during the Kursk operation, it became evident that Putin lacks the resources to hold ground when Ukraine intensifies its efforts.

The President also noted that the defense strategy includes a classified component, known to some key international partners, with the necessary military capabilities to assist.

The defense plan also covers the ongoing successful operations of Ukraine's Defense and Security Forces in specific areas within enemy territory. Additionally, support from partners will help bolster reserve brigades for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Air defense systems also need to be upgraded to effectively protect Ukraine’s cities and villages from Russian missiles and drones.

The third point of the plan is deterrence. Ukraine proposes deploying a comprehensive non-nuclear strategic deterrence package on its soil, enough to protect the country from any future military threats from Russia and to limit Moscow’s options.

This third point also has a classified annex, which has already been shared with the leaders of the U.S., UK, France, Italy, and Germany. Other states capable of contributing to this deterrence effort will also be briefed.

"The deterrence package means that Russia will either opt for diplomacy or see its military machine collapse. Peace through strength," Zelenskyy added.

The fourth point addresses Ukraine’s strategic economic potential. Zelenskyy said Ukraine is offering the U.S. and its partners, especially the EU, a special agreement for the joint protection of critical resources in Ukraine, along with shared investments and utilization of these economic assets.

He stressed that this agreement would enhance the current economic pressure on Russia, including sanctions, oil price caps, export restrictions, and other measures aimed at weakening the Russian economy.

The fifth point of the Victory Plan is focused on the post-war period.

"After the war, Ukraine will have a battle-hardened military force with experience in combat, weaponry, and strategic cooperation. Guaranteeing European security will be a fitting mission for our heroes," Zelenskyy emphasized.

According to the president, Ukraine’s military experience should be used to strengthen NATO's defense capabilities and ensure security across Europe.