Zelenskyy Meets Trump Sunday to Push for Urgent Peace Deal

UPDATE: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to meet with former U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday, December 24, 2023, at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida. This critical meeting aims to finalize a peace agreement that could end nearly four years of conflict following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

As tensions escalate, Russia has ramped up its assaults on Kyiv, deploying missiles and drones in a bid to exert pressure on Zelenskyy ahead of the talks. Zelenskyy stated, “Ukraine is willing to do whatever it takes to stop this war,” emphasizing the necessity for strength in negotiations. He called for global unity, declaring, “If the whole world — Europe and America — is on our side, together we will stop” Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Zelenskyy’s agenda includes discussions on security and economic partnerships, alongside pressing “territorial issues,” particularly concerning the contested Donbas region. The urgency of this meeting cannot be overstated, as Zelenskyy seeks to solidify support amidst escalating hostilities from Russia.

In a recent meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Zelenskyy pointed to the importance of international pressure on Russia. Carney announced an additional $2.5 billion Canadian (US$1.8 billion) in economic aid to bolster Ukraine’s recovery efforts. “Zelenskyy and Trump have created conditions for a just and lasting peace,” Carney remarked, underscoring the moment’s significance.

The two leaders’ meeting signals potential progress; Zelenskyy revealed that a 20-point draft proposal for peace is “about 90% ready.” This optimistic assessment aligns with U.S. officials’ previous statements following negotiations in Berlin. The U.S. has indicated it may offer security guarantees to Ukraine, akin to those provided to NATO members.

Zelenskyy has also suggested he might reconsider Ukraine’s bid to join NATO if adequate protections are established against further Russian aggression. “There is still work to be done on sensitive issues,” he acknowledged, hinting at a demanding few weeks ahead.

Zelenskyy has been in touch with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner to discuss ongoing negotiations. The urgency of these discussions is palpable, as both leaders prepare to navigate complex territorial and security matters, with Zelenskyy open to troop withdrawals from the eastern industrial heartland if Russia reciprocates.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed ongoing dialogue with U.S. officials, stating, “It was agreed upon to continue the dialogue.” Meanwhile, Putin has made it clear he expects recognition of Russian control over key regions, including the annexed Crimean Peninsula, further complicating matters.

Zelenskyy’s meeting with Trump is crucial not only for Ukraine but for international stability, as the world watches closely for any signs of a breakthrough in negotiations. As the situation continues to develop, the outcomes of this meeting will have profound implications for the future of Ukraine and its relationship with both the U.S. and Russia.

Stay tuned for updates on this urgent and developing story.