Ukraine has been offered 15-year security guarantees by the United States, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. The announcement followed talks with former President Donald Trump in Florida on Sunday.
Trump said the deal was “close to 95%” complete. Zelensky, however, expressed interest in extending guarantees up to 50 years.
Remaining Issues in Peace Talks
Two main issues remain unresolved. Zelensky highlighted territorial disputes and the future of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. Less clarity exists over Ukraine’s contested Donbas region, which Moscow largely controls.
Russia holds about 75% of Donetsk and nearly all of Luhansk. Discussions over Donbas have been a major sticking point, as Moscow refuses to compromise on its goal of full control.
Progress and Diplomatic Moves
After the meeting, Zelensky told reporters that the overall peace plan is about 90% complete. He stressed that security guarantees are essential. “Without security guarantees, this war cannot be considered truly over,” he said.
Zelensky suggested that guarantees should begin once Ukraine signs a peace deal. He also asked the US to consider extending the guarantees to 30, 40, or even 50 years.
Trump indicated that a deal on Donbas is still unresolved but said negotiations are moving closer to a solution. He also floated the idea of trilateral talks between the US, Russia, and Ukraine at an appropriate time.
European Support and Further Discussions
European leaders welcomed progress. Ursula von der Leyen praised the Florida talks but emphasised the need for “ironclad security guarantees” for Ukraine. Emmanuel Macron confirmed that Kyiv’s allies will meet in Paris next month to discuss security arrangements.
Zelensky also suggested holding a referendum in Ukraine on any peace deal. He insisted that a 60-day ceasefire would be necessary for such a vote. However, Russia does not support a temporary ceasefire, arguing it would prolong the conflict.
Ongoing Conflict
Despite diplomatic progress, fighting continues. Kyiv reported 25 Russian airstrikes on Sunday, 21 of which were intercepted. Russia stated that its forces shot down 89 Ukrainian UAVs, mostly over the Bryansk region.
Next Steps
Ukrainian officials may meet at the White House in January, possibly with European leaders, to finalise further talks. The goal remains a peace agreement that combines security guarantees, territorial clarity, and continued negotiations on Donbas.
