Prof. Dr. Heinemann-Grüder emphasized that the talks must above all send a signal of transatlantic unity, as President Putin continues to play Europe and the US off against each other. He said it was important to establish common red lines vis-à-vis Moscow and a new, coordinated negotiation strategy between the US, Europe, and Ukraine. He viewed the dispatch of US negotiator Steve Witcoff as a positive sign, as it would clearly involve Europe more closely in the talks.
Regarding the status of the peace plan, Heinemann-Grüder pointed out that few details are known at this stage, which he considered potentially conducive to serious negotiations. However, it appears that Russia will retain certain Ukrainian territories and that compromises will be discussed regarding the future size of the Ukrainian armed forces and the role of NATO. First, however, a ceasefire must be achieved before substantive peace negotiations can take place. Heinemann-Grüder sees the plan having a chance of being accepted in Moscow, especially if disappointment over unfulfilled expectations of President Trump, a possible rapprochement between Turkey and the European position, combined pressure from China and India, and domestic political tensions in Russia cause the Kremlin to reconsider its position.