Opinion Piece: Reflecting on Ukraine’s War and Path to Peace
Published on October 5, 2026, this opinion article delves into the complex realities of war and peace in Ukraine, offering strategic recommendations for halting the ongoing conflict, safeguarding national sovereignty, mobilizing society, fostering political unity, and shaping the country’s future governance following the prolonged war with the Russian Federation. With the war now stretching beyond four and a half years, the piece revisits the aftermath of the 2013-2014 Revolution, highlighting the phases of "Intervention" as defined by revolutionary law. Key consequences of the revolution—Intervention, Usurpation, and Restoration—are identified as factors that severely weakened the state and left it vulnerable to external aggression.
Key Proposals for Ending the Conflict and Building a Coalition
The article emphasizes that securing a ceasefire along the current frontline would represent a definitive Ukrainian victory, even if the country were to abandon its aspirations to join NATO and the European Union. Prioritizing the survival of the state above all else, it calls on President Volodymyr Zelensky to serve as a unifying leader for all political factions and citizens alike. To this end, it suggests forming a "Unity Coalition" government, with an 80% renewal of the Cabinet of Ministers drawn from diverse political groups.
- Yuriy Hudymenko is proposed as a candidate to lead the Ministry for Veterans Affairs
- Borys Kolesnikov is considered for heading the Ministry for Internally Displaced Persons
The introduction of military administrations across all consolidated territorial communities (OTGs) is also recommended, with the heads of these communities appointed as military administration leaders. These military administrations would operate under a rotational system coordinated with the Unity Coalition government and the President.
Additionally, the article advocates for reviewing local community budgets and reallocating funds to the Treasury to support wartime needs. It proposes limiting certain democratic processes and local self-governance during the conflict, contingent on a constitutional majority vote in parliament. To uphold peace under fair conditions, the creation of an "Extraordinary Council" under the President’s office is also recommended.
A significant highlight is the discussion of Ukraine’s postwar political framework, including the potential establishment of a constitutional monarchy transitioning gradually into a parliamentary republic, inspired by models from Britain and Scandinavian countries. The article also envisions the ceremonial crowning of a Grand Prince of Kyiv and All Rus-Ukraine at the Mariinsky Palace as a symbolic embodiment of Ukrainian national identity.
As Valeriy Pekar noted, "We simply have no alternative plan."
Overall, the piece stresses the urgent need for political cohesion and effective governance amid wartime challenges to preserve Ukraine’s statehood. The suggested Unity Coalition and military administrative reforms reflect a drive toward stability and coordinated action during these turbulent times. If implemented thoughtfully, the proposed postwar governance structure could lay the foundation for lasting stability and national development.