Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to hold a critical meeting with US President Donald Trump in Florida on Sunday, aiming to advance negotiations to end Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Key Issues on the Table
President Zelenskyy has indicated that the 20-point peace plan under discussion is approximately 90% ready, suggesting significant progress could be made before the New Year. The talks are expected to cover several major areas, including security assurances for Ukraine and a prospective economic agreement.
Zelenskyy confirmed that territorial concerns, specifically regarding the Donbas region and the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, will be raised. He firmly stated that Ukraine would never recognise any territory as Russian under any circumstances.
The Sticking Points: Security and Land
A primary focus will be the nature of long-term security guarantees from the United States. Reports suggest Washington has proposed a 15-year deal, subject to renewal, which would mirror NATO's Article 5 commitment. This would mean an attack on Ukraine triggers a collective military response from the US and its allies. However, Kyiv is pushing for a longer, legally binding agreement.
Territorial disputes remain a formidable obstacle. Moscow demands Ukraine withdraw from parts of the eastern Donetsk region to grant Russia full control of the Donbas. Kyiv, conversely, argues for a ceasefire along the current frontlines. In a potential compromise, the US has floated the idea of a free economic zone if Ukraine cedes parts of Donetsk, though details are scarce.
Unresolved Nuclear Plant and Russian Stance
The status of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, Europe's largest, is another unresolved issue. While internationally recognised as Ukrainian, Russia claims ownership. The US has proposed a trilateral operational agreement involving the US, Ukraine, and Russia. Ukraine's counter-proposal envisions Ukrainian-American control, with the US determining the use of half the energy produced.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Kyiv of being in no hurry for peace, warning that Russia will accomplish its military objectives by force if necessary. This rhetoric followed a massive Russian drone and missile attack on Ukraine overnight before the talks.
President Trump, describing the US as the driving force behind the process, has said he believes the meeting will go well and expects to speak with President Putin "soon".
