Trump and Zelensky Report Progress in Ukraine Peace Talks, but Key Issues Remain
In a significant step toward resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, former President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced they had made substantial progress during their recent discussions in Florida. However, Trump cautioned that “one or two very thorny issues” still need to be addressed before a comprehensive peace agreement can be reached.
Why It Matters
The talks underscore an urgent need for de-escalation in the nearly four-year conflict that has devastated Ukraine. With Russia controlling about 20% of Ukrainian territory, both countries recognize that a diplomatic resolution is essential. The discussions not only highlight the ongoing crisis but also reflect international concerns regarding security in Eastern Europe amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Key Developments
- Trump stated that a key sticking point involves territorial disputes, with Russia demanding additional land from Ukraine.
- Zelensky reported that they had agreed on “90%” of a proposed 20-point peace plan.
- Trump indicated that a security guarantee for Ukraine is nearing completion, approximately “95% done.”
- Discussions are set to continue next week with Ukrainian and US teams focused on finalizing additional terms.
- Following talks, both leaders discussed a potential trilateral meeting involving Russia at an appropriate time.
- European leaders echoed support for Ukraine, with calls for robust security guarantees during future meetings.
Full Report
Outcomes of the Meeting
During a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Zelensky expressed optimism about the talks, noting a productive dialogue addressing multiple facets of the conflict. He emphasized that the agreement reached on the peace plan represents significant progress for both nations. Trump supported this sentiment but highlighted the persistent complexities related to territorial negotiations.
Territorial Disputes Remain Key Concerns
Trump elaborated on the ongoing territorial challenges, specifically mentioning the region of Donbas, which Moscow largely controls. He stated that certain areas are “up for grabs” and mentioned that negotiations over establishing a demilitarized zone in Eastern Ukraine remain unresolved. Ukrainian officials insist they will not concede their claims to this territory without significant concessions for local governance.
US Involvement and Future Talks
Although Trump refrained from committing to specific logistical support or troop deployments for Ukraine, he indicated that security guarantees are well underway. He suggested that talks with Russia could be part of a more extensive negotiation strategy in the future, contingent on the right circumstances. Meanwhile, the prospect of further discussions was emphasized, with Zelensky proposing meetings at the White House in January, involving European allies.
Context & Previous Events
Since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, tensions have escalated considerably, with Moscow currently occupying about 75% of the Donetsk region and nearly all of Luhansk. Earlier discussions in September had seen Trump fluctuating on Ukraine’s territorial integrity, contributing to a complex narrative surrounding US foreign policy in Eastern Europe. Following this meeting, President Trump also engaged in a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, discussing proposals from the EU and Ukraine to end the war.
