Trump and Zelenskyy discuss potential Ukraine peace deal amid ongoing tensions

PALM BEACH, Florida (AP) — President Donald Trump on Sunday stated that Ukraine and Russia are ‘closer than ever’ to reaching a peace deal while hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago resort. However, he warned that negotiations remain complex and could break down, prolonging the conflict.

The meeting followed a two-and-a-half-hour phone call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who launched the war with Ukraine nearly four years ago. Trump expressed belief that Putin still desires peace, despite ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine.

‘Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed,’ Trump said during a news conference with Zelenskyy, who he described as ‘brave.’ Both leaders acknowledged significant issues remain in the negotiations, particularly regarding territory control and security guarantees for Ukraine.

They also contacted European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, and the leaders of Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, and Poland. Zelenskyy expressed readiness for peace, thanking Trump for his efforts.

Earlier that day, Yuri Ushakov, Putin’s foreign affairs adviser, indicated that the recent Trump-Putin call was friendly, lasting over an hour. Ushakov noted that a definitive political decision from Kyiv is essential for a comprehensive end to hostilities.

In the city of Sloviansk, Russian aerial bomb strikes on homes left three injured and one dead. This attack followed a separate incident in Kyiv that resulted in 27 injuries and one death over the weekend.

Despite the violence, Trump maintained that he thinks Putin is ‘very serious’ about ending the war, acknowledging Ukraine’s military efforts as well. Trump mentioned the possibility of the negotiations falling apart but remained hopeful for progress.

‘In a few weeks, we will know one way or the other,’ he said, cautioning that one unexpected issue could derail the talks.

Zelenskyy revealed that their peace proposal is ‘about 90% ready,’ which has instilled some optimism among negotiators. The talks reflect efforts to provide Ukraine with NATO-like security guarantees without full membership.

After discussing various plans, Trump highlighted the importance of a ‘free economic zone’ in the Donbas region, but noted significant issues remain unresolved. Zelenskyy indicated that decisions about territory should ultimately rest with the Ukrainian public, emphasizing the need for their approval through referendums.

Trump’s optimism contrasts with skepticism from Ukrainian analysts, who recalled previous failed attempts for peace. Nonetheless, talks continue amid heightened military actions. The Ukrainian government continues to seek guarantees of support against future Russian aggression, whilst navigating the complexities of territorial disputes.