U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have resumed discussions on a peace proposal to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Trump emphasized that the proposal will include strong security guarantees and stated that negotiations are in their final stages.
On December 28, before meeting with Zelenskyy at Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump told reporters that the Russia-Ukraine peace proposal would include strong security assurances for Ukraine. He added that there would be security agreements involving deep engagement from European nations.
Trump expressed optimism about Ukraine and Russia reaching an agreement, noting that negotiations are in the final phase. He also mentioned that too many lives have been lost and that both President Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin desire a resolution.
Regarding the timeline for peace negotiations, Trump clarified that there is no set deadline. He revealed plans to continue discussions with Putin and European leaders following his meeting with Zelenskyy. When questioned about recent Russian attacks on Ukraine casting doubt on the sincerity of peace talks, Trump answered that Putin is very serious. He also noted that Ukraine has launched strong counteroffensives, emphasizing the need to monitor developments as the conflict continues.
In response, Zelenskyy announced that they would discuss a 20-point peace plan, expressing hope for a swift path to peace. He explained that approximately 90% of the plan has already been agreed upon by U.S. and Ukrainian teams.
Trump also hinted that the proposal includes post-war reconstruction plans. Mentioning that there are aspects that would greatly benefit Ukraine economically, he noted that the extensive rebuilding process would generate significant wealth. Local media reported that both security guarantees and post-war economic reconstruction are key elements of the negotiations.
Prior to his meeting with Zelenskyy, Trump revealed on Truth Social that he had a very productive and positive phone call with Putin. During a meeting with Trump on December 25, Zelenskyy had also stated that they would discuss the 20-point peace plan, security guarantees, and post-war reconstruction issues.
During that meeting, Zelenskyy stated that 90% of the 20-point peace plan was ready, and would focus on sensitive issues such as the Donbas region and the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. The remaining 10% that has not been agreed upon involves territorial concessions. Russia demands the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from Donetsk and the cession of Donbas territory, while Ukraine insists on a ceasefire at the current front lines. The U.S. has reportedly proposed creating a demilitarized zone and a free economic zone in parts of Donetsk as both sides remain at an impasse.
