Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to meet former U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida on Sunday to discuss a potential peace framework aimed at ending Russia’s full-scale war in Ukraine. The meeting comes as a 20-point peace plan and a U.S.-backed security guarantee deal near completion.
Zelensky emphasized that the discussions will focus on territorial issues, including the Donbas region and the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which remain major hurdles in negotiations. Moscow demands Ukrainian withdrawal from parts of eastern Donetsk under Kyiv control, while Ukraine seeks to maintain current frontline positions. Washington has proposed a compromise involving a free economic zone in areas Ukraine might concede, though details remain unclear.
The Ukrainian leader described the upcoming talks as an opportunity to refine draft agreements and explore potential economic deals. Zelensky also indicated that if the U.S. does not fully support Ukraine’s stance on sensitive land issues, Kyiv could consider holding a referendum, provided Russia agrees to a 60-day ceasefire.
Trump expressed optimism about the talks, suggesting they could yield a “major diplomatic advance.” He also indicated that he may soon hold discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. European leaders, including NATO and Finnish officials, may participate virtually to support the process.
Despite ongoing negotiations, Russia has continued military attacks on Ukraine, targeting energy infrastructure and southern ports near Odesa. Recent Russian strikes on Kharkiv resulted in civilian casualties. Meanwhile, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov acknowledged differences between Kyiv’s proposed 20-point plan and prior Russian-U.S. discussions but hinted at progress.
As Ukraine seeks legally binding security guarantees and a path to end the conflict, the Zelensky-Trump meeting could mark a pivotal moment in Europe’s deadliest war since World War II. Both sides aim to reach actionable decisions before the New Year.
