Zelensky Signs Arms Agreement with Sweden .. and Russia Raises New Peace Conditions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is heading to Sweden today, Wednesday, for an official visit expected to witness the signing of an important agreement to supply Kyiv with weapons, according to a statement from the Swedish government.
Zelensky will meet with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Linköping, the headquarters of the Swedish defense giant "Saab," known for producing advanced "Gripen" fighters.
At the end of the meeting, the two leaders will hold a joint press conference to announce a new agreement in the field of defense exports, reflecting a significant shift in Sweden's stance towards military support for Ukraine.
Kristersson stated via the platform "X" (formerly Twitter):
"A strong and capable Ukraine is a top priority for Sweden. We will continue to support its ability to counter Russian aggression."
Last year, Sweden suspended plans to deliver "Gripen" fighters to Ukraine in response to a request from partner countries to prioritize U.S. F-16 fighters.
However, Zelensky's current visit indicates a potential revival of this defense project.
* In contrast ... A "non-official document" from Russia sets conditions for peace
In a parallel development, two American officials and an informed source revealed that Russia has reintroduced its previous conditions for reaching a peace agreement with Ukraine, through a "non-official document" sent to the United States earlier this week.
The document emphasizes Moscow's demand for full control over the Donbas region, which contradicts the current U.S. administration's position, led by President Donald Trump, who prefers to freeze the front lines at the current situation.
The term "non-official document" is used in diplomatic circles to refer to a non-binding proposal presented to convey a particular party's position to another without relying on official channels.
This document threatens to undermine the proposed summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which was to be held in Budapest, but is now considered "highly questionable," according to observers.
* Zelensky Rejects Moscow's Proposals ... and Trump Calls for Freezing the Conflict
In a private meeting last Friday, American officials presented Zelensky with a plan proposed by the Kremlin that involves Ukraine relinquishing the Donbas region in exchange for receiving small parts of the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions.
However, Zelensky firmly rejected the proposal and reiterated his stance against any concession of Ukrainian territory.
In contrast, Trump stated yesterday evening, Tuesday, that he does not want to hold a "wasted meeting" with Putin, but believes that a ceasefire along the current lines is still possible.
* Summary of the Scene
Zelensky's visit to Sweden comes at a critical time, amidst diplomatic escalation and military movements, and amidst stalled attempts to reach a peace formula that satisfies all parties.
While Kyiv seeks to enhance its defensive capabilities through new agreements with its European allies, the biggest obstacle remains Moscow's conditions and its firm stance on control over eastern Ukraine.
Will Sweden be a new gateway for military support to Ukraine, or will the geopolitical game witness other surprises before the end of the year?
