Florida (TDI): US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that efforts to end Russia’s war in Ukraine were closer than ever, but acknowledged that key differences, particularly over territory, remain unresolved following fresh talks with leaders from both sides.
Trump said it would become clear within weeks whether a negotiated settlement was achievable, nearly a year into his presidency and almost three years after Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
As part of an end-of-year diplomatic push, Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida, where the two met with senior aides over lunch at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence. The meeting came a day after Russia carried out heavy strikes on residential areas of Kyiv.
Shortly before Zelensky’s visit, Trump also held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Despite the renewed attacks, Trump said Moscow was “serious” about seeking peace.
“I really believe we’re far closer than ever before with both parties,” Trump said, speaking alongside Zelensky. “Everybody wants it ended.”
Following their talks, Trump and Zelensky held a joint phone call with key European leaders, who have expressed concern that any settlement could embolden Russia. Zelensky said discussions could continue in Washington in January, potentially involving European leaders as well.
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Despite Trump’s optimism, no major progress was reported on the most contentious issue, territory. Under the current US-backed framework, fighting would halt along existing frontlines in eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region, with a demilitarised zone established. Russia, however, continues to press for formal territorial concessions.
“It’s unresolved, but it’s getting closer,” Trump said. “That’s a very tough issue, but one I think will be resolved.” Trump also suggested he could address Ukraine’s parliament to promote the proposal, an idea Zelensky welcomed.
Zelensky has signaled conditional openness to the revised plan, marking Kyiv’s clearest acknowledgment so far that territorial compromises may be discussed, subject to approval by Ukrainian voters in a referendum.
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Russia, however, has shown little flexibility. In its summary of talks between Putin and Trump, the Kremlin urged Ukraine to make what it called a “brave decision” by withdrawing forces from Donbas. Russian officials accused European leaders of obstructing peace efforts.
