Trump‑Zelenskyy meeting signals perceived progress toward peace President Donald Trump welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Palm Beach resort, describing the two‑hour lunch as “excellent” and saying the war is closer to a settlement than ever before[1]. The meeting followed a 2½‑hour phone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which officials called “friendly, benevolent and businesslike”[1]. Zelenskyy reported that the U.S.–Ukrainian 20‑point draft is about 90 % complete, echoing earlier statements from Berlin talks[1]. All outlets note Donbas as the chief obstacle, with both sides acknowledging its centrality to any deal[1][3].

Donbas status and security guarantees dominate negotiations Kyiv seeks NATO‑style security guarantees, and Zelenskyy indicated willingness to abandon Ukraine’s NATO membership bid if such assurances are provided[1]. The United States has floated a NATO‑like protection package, while Russia demands a withdrawal from the Donbas region and rejects a temporary ceasefire, warning it would extend the conflict[2]. Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov labeled the proposed ceasefire as a “prolongation” of fighting and pressed for Donbas withdrawal[2]. Both sides agree that any settlement must address future security to prevent renewed aggression[1][3].

January diplomatic round to involve European leaders Trump announced a follow‑up gathering with European heads of state in January, possibly at the White House or another venue, to continue the peace push[3]. Zelenskyy expressed openness to returning to Washington for further talks and emphasized the need for European participation[2]. The planned summit reflects a broader “diplomatic sprint” involving the United States, Ukraine, and European partners ahead of the next round of negotiations[2].

Russian attacks persist despite diplomatic overtures Russia launched a major drone‑and‑missile assault on Kyiv, knocking out power and heating for hundreds of thousands amid freezing temperatures[2]. Ground fighting continued in Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Uman, while Ukrainian forces struck a Russian refinery in the Rostov region with Storm Shadow missiles[4]. Moscow has retained control of most of Luhansk and about 70 % of Donetsk, underscoring the territorial realities that complicate the peace framework[4].

Contrasting claims on territorial breakthroughs Trump asserted that the peace process is “closer than ever” but admitted there is no breakthrough on territorial concessions[2]. In contrast, the Kremlin maintains that any ceasefire without full Russian demands would merely prolong the war, highlighting a stark divergence in expectations over land‑related terms[2].