Zelensky confirms meeting with former President Trump in Florida on Sunday, a development that could shape the next steps toward ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The Ukrainian president posted on X, “We are not losing a single day. We have agreed on a meeting at the highest level – with President Trump in the near future. A lot can be decided before the New Year. Glory to Ukraine!”
Meeting Details
The meeting is scheduled for Sunday in Florida, according to reports from CNN and The Associated Press. Ukrainian officials confirmed the arrangement with Axios, and The Hill has reached out to the White House for comment. Zelensky said he hopes the discussion will allow both leaders to “finalize as much as we can,” though he did not indicate whether the talks would result in a binding agreement.
20-Point Peace Plan
Earlier this week, Zelensky unveiled a 20-point peace plan that he described as “90 % ready,” with the goal of bringing it to “100 %.” The plan includes concessions to Russia, the creation of a “fortress belt” around Donetsk, and a proposal for a free economic zone that would require Russian forces to withdraw by 5, 10, or 40 kilometers from the cities of Kramatorsk and Sloviansk. A referendum would give Ukrainians a vote on the terms, contingent on a ceasefire, according to CNN.
Zelensky on Progress and Hope
Zelensky has repeatedly emphasized the importance of dialogue. He told reporters, “Every meeting and every conversation brings us closer to the desired result.” He also reflected on the Christmas-time discussions, saying, “I hope that today’s Christmas understandings and the ideas we discussed will prove useful.” In a separate message, he expressed that many Ukrainians want to see Putin dead, but added, “When we turn to God, of course, we ask for something greater.” He concluded with a call for peace: “We ask for peace for Ukraine. We fight for it. And we pray for it. And we deserve it, so that every Ukrainian family lives in harmony.”
Other Elements of the Plan
The proposal also calls for a peace council chaired by Trump, a demilitarized zone for both sides to withdraw troops, and a “fortress belt” to protect Ukraine from future invasions. Zelensky emphasized that if the free economic zone is established, Russian troops would need to pull back accordingly, stating, “If we establish a free economic zone here, and it envisages a virtually demilitarized zone … then if these two cities, Kramatorsk and Sloviansk, are our free economic zone, the Russians would have to pull back their troops accordingly by 5, 10, or 40 kilometers.”
Putin’s Stance
Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed any compromise, blaming the nearly four-year war on Ukraine and framing the invasion as self-defence. He warned that Ukraine would be responsible if the talks falter, saying, “The issue lies entirely on the other side, the ball is entirely in the court of our so-called Western adversaries, first and foremost the leaders of the Kyiv regime and, in this case especially, their European sponsors.” Putin also stated, “We are ready for negotiations and to settle the conflict by peaceful means.”
U.S. Perspective
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff said Ukraine remains “fully committed to achieving a just and sustainable peace.” He added that the top priority for the U.S. is to “stop the killing, ensure guaranteed security, and create conditions for Ukraine’s recovery, stability, and long-term prosperity.” Witkoff noted that the 20-point peace plan had been discussed earlier in the week.
Key Takeaways
- Zelensky will meet former President Trump in Florida on Sunday to push a 20-point peace plan before the New Year.
- The plan includes a free economic zone, a demilitarized zone, a referendum, and a peace council chaired by Trump.
- Russian President Putin rejects compromise, blames Ukraine for the war, and calls for readiness to negotiate.
Zelensky’s announcement underscores a renewed push for diplomacy, even as both sides prepare for potentially decisive talks that could reshape the region’s future.
