Downing Street has stated that negotiations for peace in Ukraine are currently in a sensitive phase, urging Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt the violence and actively participate.
These remarks followed comments by US President Donald Trump, who claimed that a resolution to the conflict is now closer than ever. Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida, revealing that discussions on a security guarantee are nearly 95% complete.
However, both leaders acknowledged the presence of challenging issues that still need to be addressed. A spokesperson for Keir Starmer mentioned that despite hopes for a fair and enduring peace agreement, Russia launched a series of devastating attacks on Ukraine over the weekend.
The spokesperson emphasized the need for Putin to demonstrate genuine commitment to peace by halting the violence and embracing the peace agreement on the table. Efforts have been ongoing with Ukrainian and US counterparts to secure a deal preventing future Russian invasions.
Zelensky disclosed that the US has proposed security assurances for Ukraine lasting 15 years as part of a potential peace initiative. He expressed a preference for a 50-year American commitment to deter Russian aggression, stating that without such guarantees, the conflict is unlikely to cease. Negotiations are anticipated to intensify next month in anticipation of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion.
While specifics of the security guarantees remain undisclosed, Zelensky mentioned the involvement of allied partners. However, Putin has objected to the presence of NATO troops in Ukraine, potentially complicating the negotiations.
According to the Kremlin, Russian forces are advancing in eastern Donetsk and continuing offensives in southern Zaporizhzhia. Discussions between Putin and President Trump are expected soon, but no indication has been given regarding direct talks between Putin and Zelensky.
During a recent press briefing, Trump expressed optimism about the progress, noting that both parties are more aligned than ever before in seeking a resolution. Plans are in place for Trump to convene with European leaders and a Ukrainian delegation for further discussions in January, potentially in Washington.