Trump Says Ukraine Peace Deal Closer Than Ever, but Critical Territorial Issue Remains Unresolved

U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Sunday that an agreement to end Russia’s war in Ukraine is nearer than ever before, following separate talks with the leaders of both nations. However, he reported no breakthrough on the pivotal issue of territorial concessions.

Speaking from his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump expressed optimism but acknowledged the ongoing stalemate. “I really believe we’re… probably closer than — far closer than — ever before with both parties,” Trump said. He added that it would become clear within weeks if a resolution is possible.

The diplomatic push comes despite a major Russian missile attack on Ukrainian residential areas just a day earlier. Zelensky, during the visit, described a U.S.-backed peace plan as “95 per cent complete.”

A key point of contention remains territory. The discussed framework would halt fighting at the current frontlines in eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region and establish a demilitarized zone. Russia has long demanded formal cession of captured land, while any concession would require a referendum in Ukraine—a point Zelensky acknowledged.

In a notable moment, Trump claimed Russian President Vladimir Putin, who ordered the full-scale invasion in 2022, “wants to see Ukraine succeed.” Zelensky listened politely to the remarks, which included Trump praising Putin’s purported generosity on energy supplies.

The Ukrainian leader has maintained a cautious diplomatic approach with Trump, mindful of past friction that previously led to a suspension of U.S. aid. Following their meeting, Zelensky and Trump held a joint call with key European leaders, who are deeply concerned about any agreement that might empower Russia.

Zelensky suggested that a follow-up meeting with European allies could be held in Washington in January, a timeline echoed by French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement of a new allies’ summit in Paris.

The Kremlin, in its account of Putin’s call with Trump, urged Kyiv to make a “bold and responsible decision” by withdrawing troops from Donbas and blamed European leaders for obstructing peace. A Kremlin advisor stated that both Trump and Putin agree a temporary ceasefire would only prolong the conflict.

Zelensky confirmed that security guarantees from the United States, akin to NATO’s collective defense, were “100 per cent agreed,” though Russia has historically fiercely opposed any such arrangement for Ukraine.