Zaluzhnyi: Peace Could Trigger Political Renewal — But Ukraine Needs Strong Security Guarantees

Gen Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ukraine’s ambassador to the UK and former commander-in-chief of the armed forces, says a peace agreement would create a window for deep political renewal in Ukraine — but only if paired with robust security guarantees and an aggressive anti-corruption drive.

Writing after a recent political shake-up in Kyiv, Zaluzhnyi urged sweeping reforms to enable post-war recovery, economic growth and the return of displaced citizens. His comments follow the resignation of President Volodymyr Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, amid a corruption probe, and reports that £76m was embezzled from state nuclear operator Energoatom. Kyiv has also seen other ministerial departures and sanctions against associates while delegations travel to Washington and Paris to pursue a peace settlement.

"We Ukrainians strive for complete victory, but cannot reject the option of a long-term end to the war. Peace, even in anticipation of the next war, provides a chance for political change, for deep reforms, for full recovery, economic growth, and the return of citizens."

Zaluzhnyi warned against any hurried agreement that might compromise Ukraine’s sovereignty. To deter further aggression, he listed a range of security options, including Ukraine’s accession to NATO, hosting allied nuclear deterrence on Ukrainian soil, or stationing a sizable foreign military contingent capable of confronting Russian forces. He stressed that political and economic reforms are inseparable from credible protection.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly said he would oppose Ukrainian NATO membership and would reject a peace plan that included such a concession. Western officials, however, have signalled support for strong, NATO-style guarantees to prevent another invasion.

At home, Zaluzhnyi has emerged as a potent public figure. Nicknamed the "Iron General," he won admiration for his leadership during the early defence of Kyiv and for championing lower ranks. His popularity is reflected in public tributes and growing political speculation that he could lead a future political bloc.

Any negotiated peace is likely to have major domestic consequences. Observers say a deal could prompt national elections that would essentially act as a referendum on the terms of peace. President Zelensky has previously indicated he might not seek a second term if the war is concluded; meanwhile, polling from Nov 21 by Socis suggests his party could be challenged strongly by a bloc associated with Zaluzhnyi.

As diplomatic talks continue in Washington and Paris, the debate in Kyiv is increasingly focused on how to pair immediate security arrangements with long-term political and judicial reform — and whether peace will accelerate leadership change or consolidate existing authority.