Key Highlights
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky plans to meet US President Donald Trump in Florida on Sunday for talks aimed at ending the Russian war.
- The meeting is part of ongoing negotiations, with Ukraine seeking US security guarantees and a demilitarised “free economic zone” as potential options.
- A senior Russian official said that Zelensky’s plan was “radically different” from Russia’s current negotiating position.
Ukraine Seeks Peace with US Negotiations
The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced plans to meet with his American counterpart, Donald Trump, in Florida on Sunday. This meeting is part of an ongoing effort to negotiate a peace deal that would bring an end to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Focus on US-Brokered Peace Plan
Zelensky’s primary focus will be on a peace plan brokered by the United States, which includes separate proposals for US security guarantees. The Ukrainian leader also hopes to discuss the potential establishment of a demilitarised “free economic zone” in areas where Russia has failed to take control by force.
Russian Reactions and Ongoing Hostilities
A senior Russian official responded to Zelensky’s offer, stating that it was “radically different” from the plan currently being negotiated with the US. This statement comes amidst ongoing hostilities in Ukraine, where air strikes have resulted in casualties.
Recent Developments and Casualties
According to local officials, at least one person was injured during a Russian airstrike on the Kyiv region on Saturday night. Blasts were also heard in the capital city. The Ukrainian Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko urged residents to seek shelter, as Ukraine’s air defence forces were repelling the attack.
Ukraine’s Negotiation Strategy and US Involvement
Ukraine has been working closely with the White House on its negotiation strategy. On Friday, Zelensky told reporters that 90% of a 20-point plan was complete. He emphasized the urgency of securing peace: “We are not losing a single day. We have agreed on a meeting at the highest level – with President Trump in the near future.”
US and Russian Diplomatic Efforts
The White House has proposed establishing a demilitarised zone in eastern Ukraine, where both sides agree not to deploy troops. This proposal aims to avoid settling the complex question of legal ownership over contested territory. However, Russia is unlikely to agree to many points in this updated US plan, especially its territorial proposals.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov expressed optimism about recent developments but accused Ukraine of trying to “torpedo” talks on the US plan.
He stated that December 25, 2025, would remain a milestone when they came close to a solution, but success depended on political will from all sides.
Meanwhile, Zelensky outlined the latest version of the peace plan this week, signaling progress in negotiations. The deal includes commitments for US and European security guarantees modeled after NATO’s Article 5, ensuring military support if Russia launches a renewed invasion. Ukraine also aims to maintain its military at 800,000 personnel.
Conclusion
The upcoming meeting between Zelensky and Trump is part of an ongoing effort by both countries to negotiate a peace deal that would end the Russian war in Ukraine. While there are significant challenges ahead, this meeting represents a crucial step towards finding a resolution.
