The plan envisions each republic deciding how they participate in the Union, potentially allowing some to pursue independence while keeping a central military command, signaling a shift toward decentralization and republic autonomy.

A September report notes the Congress of People’s Deputies voting to scrap the old 15-republic union and move to a flexible, ‘a la carte’ union with a three-part interim government structure.

These moves come amid a broader 1991 wave: the Communist Party is suspended, nationalist movements surge, the Baltics push for UN membership, Azerbaijan declares independence, all signaling a rapid disintegration of the Soviet framework.

Proposed new power pillars include a State Council (to include Gorbachev and participating republic leaders) to set policy, an Inter-Republican Economic Council to steer reforms, and a senate-like body with each republic represented.

Republics would choose between joining a union treaty with varying participation or pursuing full independence, with all eligible to join an economic union preserving a single free market and a collective security agreement.