Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has highlighted that protecting Ukraine’s sovereignty and obtaining strong security guarantees are the main goals in peace talks with Russia. The biggest hurdle continues to be the territorial dispute, with Russia demanding that Ukraine relinquish parts of the Donbas region, a demand Kyiv refuses.
Following talks with French President Emmanuel Macron and several European leaders, Zelenskyy described the negotiations as “very constructive” but acknowledged unresolved difficult issues.
Simultaneously, U.S. and Ukrainian officials met in Florida to revise a peace plan previously criticised for favouring Russia. U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff then travelled to Moscow to present these developments to President Vladimir Putin, joined by Jared Kushner, Trump’s adviser and son-in-law.
The initial U.S. draft peace proposal, perceived as biased towards Moscow, has been adjusted to better reflect Ukraine’s position. Key points of contention remain frozen Russian assets, Ukraine’s EU market access, territorial integrity, and security guarantees, which include possible NATO membership—strongly opposed by Russia and Donald Trump. European leaders assert they must be involved in any final agreement.
Despite diplomatic efforts, fighting persists; a recent missile attack in eastern Ukraine killed four civilians and injured dozens. Zelenskyy affirmed the need for Russia to end the war it initiated, emphasising a desire for a dignified resolution.
The peace process unfolds amid a corruption scandal in Zelenskyy’s administration, with his chief of staff resigning after an investigation, though no charges have been filed.
Russia has shown little urgency for peace, maintaining military objectives and offering ceasefire terms rejected by Ukraine as unacceptable. The negotiations remain complex and fragile, reflecting ongoing attempts to find a resolution while conflict continues on the ground.