US President Donald Trump has said that peace negotiations aimed at ending the long-running Russia-Ukraine war are “closer than ever before” following a high-profile meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.
The meeting took place as part of a fast-paced diplomatic effort ahead of the New Year, even as Russia launched fresh missile and drone attacks on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. Despite the violence, Trump expressed confidence that progress toward peace is being made.
Trump Optimistic but Cautious
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Trump described his talks with Zelensky as “terrific” and said discussions covered nearly every major issue related to the conflict.
“We’ve done very well. We’ve had discussions on just about every subject,” Trump said. “We’ve made a lot of progress on ending that war.”
However, Trump also acknowledged that the negotiations are complex and could still collapse. He warned that if talks fail, the war could continue for several more years.
Trump said it would become clear within the next few weeks whether a final agreement to end the war is achievable.
Donbas Remains the Biggest Challenge
Both Trump and Zelensky said the future of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine remains the most difficult and unresolved issue. Donbas has been a major battleground since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022.
Under the current US-backed proposal, fighting would stop along existing frontlines in Donbas. The plan would also establish a demilitarised zone to prevent further clashes. However, Russia has long demanded that Ukraine formally give up control of parts of the region.
“It’s unresolved, but it’s getting much closer,” Trump said. “That’s a very tough issue, but one that I think will get resolved.”
Zelensky Shows Willingness to Compromise
In a significant shift, Zelensky signaled openness to the revised US peace plan. He said the framework is 90 percent agreed, while security guarantees from the United States are fully settled.
Zelensky acknowledged that territorial concessions may be part of the final deal. However, he stressed that any such decision would require approval from Ukrainian citizens through a national referendum.
The Ukrainian president also said talks are ongoing over a “prosperity plan” aimed at rebuilding Ukraine’s economy after nearly four years of war. Discussions are also focused on the sequence of actions each side would take once a deal is finalized.
Diplomatic Outreach to Europe
After their meeting, Trump and Zelensky held a joint phone call with key European leaders. European governments have expressed concern that any rushed agreement could embolden Russia or weaken Ukraine’s long-term security.
Zelensky said European leaders may travel to Washington in January for further talks with Trump, underlining Europe’s continued role in shaping the peace process.
Throughout his visit, Zelensky remained cautious and diplomatic, especially after a tense White House meeting earlier this year where he was publicly criticized by Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
Russia Rejects Ceasefire Proposals
Russia, meanwhile, has shown little sign of compromise. The Kremlin said Ukraine must make a “brave decision” and immediately withdraw troops from Donbas.
Russian officials rejected proposals for a temporary ceasefire, arguing that it would only prolong the conflict and lead to renewed fighting later. Moscow has also firmly opposed Ukraine’s entry into NATO.
According to Russian officials, Europe is obstructing peace efforts by supporting Ukraine’s resistance.
Fresh Russian Attacks Continue
Even as talks continue, Russia has intensified its military campaign. In recent attacks, Russian missiles and drones struck residential areas in Kyiv, knocking out power and heating systems for hundreds of thousands of people during freezing winter temperatures.
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that if Kyiv refuses to settle peacefully, Russia would pursue its goals through military force.
The renewed attacks highlight the fragile nature of the peace talks and the high stakes involved as diplomatic efforts move forward.