In a significant development ahead of crucial diplomatic talks, US President Donald Trump has declared that any peace proposal from Ukraine to end the ongoing war with Russia would require his personal approval. This statement sets a cautious tone for his scheduled meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida.
Trump's Assertion and Upcoming High-Stakes Talks
Speaking to Politico on Friday, December 26, President Trump directly addressed Zelensky's proposed plan to conclude the nearly four-year-long conflict. "He doesn't have anything until I approve it. So we'll see what he's got," Trump stated, underscoring the United States' pivotal role in the negotiations. Despite this pointed remark, the US leader expressed optimism about the forthcoming discussions with both Ukrainian and Russian leadership.
"I think it's going to go good with him. I think it's going to go good with [Vladimir] Putin," Trump added, revealing his expectation to speak with the Russian president "soon, as much as I want." The much-anticipated face-to-face meeting between Trump and Zelensky is set for Sunday, December 28, in Florida, marking a renewed American diplomatic push to resolve the protracted war.
Zelensky's 20-Point Peace Blueprint and Key Sticking Points
President Zelensky is preparing to present a comprehensive new plan aimed at ending the hostilities. He informed reporters that the proposal is "about 90 per cent ready" and will consist of approximately 20 points. Central to this blueprint are discussions on US security guarantees for Ukraine and the creation of a demilitarised zone.
While Zelensky has indicated Ukraine's willingness to consider withdrawing troops from sections of its eastern industrial heartland if Russia reciprocates—thereby establishing an internationally monitored demilitarised zone—Moscow has shown no signs of agreement. Russia continues to insist that Ukraine relinquish remaining territory in the Donbas region, a demand Kyiv has firmly rejected. Currently, Russia controls most of Luhansk and around 70 per cent of Donetsk.
Zelensky also mentioned that an "economic agreement" would be part of the discussions, though he could not confirm if any final deal would be reached by the meeting's conclusion. Territorial issues are also expected to be raised.
Widening Diplomatic Contacts and European Involvement
The diplomatic landscape is actively evolving around these talks. Trump's comments followed Zelensky's report of a "good conversation" with US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, a day earlier. Furthermore, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed on Friday that Moscow has maintained contact with US representatives after meetings in Florida between Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev and American officials. "It was agreed upon to continue the dialogue," Peskov stated.
Zelensky emphasised the importance of involving Europe in the peace process, even as he acknowledged the logistical challenges. "We must, without doubt, find some format in the near future in which not only Ukraine and the US are present, but Europe is represented as well," he said, expressing doubts about arranging such participation at short notice.
The outcome of the Florida summit is being closely watched globally, as it could define the next phase of efforts to bring stability to Eastern Europe after years of conflict.
