At a Glance
- Donald Trump says Ukraine and Russia are closer to a peace deal after meeting Zelenskyy at his Florida resort.
- Negotiations still complex, with Donbas territory and security guarantees as main sticking points.
- Trump plans another call with Putin and has offered NATO-style security guarantees to Ukraine.
- Why it matters: The U.S. president’s push for a settlement could shape the future of the war and influence European security.
President Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Palm Beach resort and declared that the two sides are nearer to a peace deal than ever before, even as the conflict in Ukraine continues to rage.
Trump-Zelenskyy Meeting
The meeting followed a 2½-hour phone call between Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which Trump described as “excellent.” Trump said he believes Putin still wants peace, despite recent Russian attacks, and praised Zelenskyy as brave.
European leaders called:
- Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- Poland
Key Issues and Next Steps
Both leaders acknowledged unresolved issues, notably the status of the Donbas region and Ukraine’s need for security guarantees. Trump said the parties are inching closer, but he warned negotiations could still collapse.
President Trump announced:
> “In a few weeks, we will know one way or the other, I think.”
President Trump added:
> “I believe Ukraine has made some very strong attacks also.”
Trump will call Putin again; Russian adviser Yuri Ushakov said the call was initiated by the U.S. and that a prompt follow-up was agreed.
Yuri Ushakov stated:
> “The call was initiated by the U.S. side and was ‘friendly, benevolent and businesslike.'”
Yuri Ushakov added:
> “A bold, responsible, political decision is needed from Kyiv on the fiercely contested Donbas region.”
Draft Proposal and Security Guarantees
Negotiators say a 20-point draft proposal is about 90 % ready. The U.S. has offered NATO-style security guarantees, and Zelenskyy said he would drop Ukraine’s NATO bid if such protection is granted.
Broader Context
Trump has demanded that Russia and Ukraine halt fighting and “stop at the battle line,” implying Moscow should keep territory seized. Zelenskyy said he would withdraw troops from eastern industrial heartland if Russia pulls back and the area becomes a demilitarized zone monitored by international forces.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy remarked:
> “Our attitude is very clear. That’s why President Trump said this is a very tough question and, of course, we have with Russia different positions on it.”
Putin’s Demands
Putin wants all captured areas and Crimea recognized as Russian, wants Ukraine to abandon NATO bid, limit army size, and give official status to Russian language. He also warned that Russian police and national guard would stay in parts of Donetsk even if a demilitarized zone is established.
Key Takeaways
- Trump’s insistence on a settlement keeps the war’s outcome uncertain.
- Donbas territory and security guarantees remain the main stumbling blocks.
- NATO-style guarantees could shift Ukraine’s stance on joining the alliance.
The window for a comprehensive ceasefire remains uncertain as Trump’s push for a settlement and Putin’s continued pressure shape the conflict’s future.
