Zelensky Identifies Territorial Issues as the ‘Most Difficult’ Aspect of Peace Talks
President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed that Ukraine’s sovereignty and robust security guarantees remain top priorities in ongoing peace talks aimed at ending the war with Russia. He stated that “the territorial issue is the most difficult,” especially as Russia continues to demand that Ukraine relinquish parts of the eastern Donbas region, which Kyiv firmly refuses to do.
Zelensky made these comments following a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, where they participated in discussions with European leaders from the UK, Germany, Poland, and Italy. In the meantime, Ukrainian and US negotiators recently completed two days of meetings in Florida, focused on revising a controversial peace plan perceived to favor Russia. The White House has conveyed optimism regarding the talks, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stating that the administration is hopeful for a potential agreement to conclude the conflict.
However, Zelensky adopted a more cautious tone, describing the talks as very constructive yet acknowledging the presence of tough issues that still need resolution. US special envoy Steve Witkoff, who was involved in the meetings, is now set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. Witkoff has held discussions with Zelensky, Macron, and other key leaders to convey the outcomes of the negotiations.
Last week, Putin revealed that a draft peace plan had been presented by the Americans, potentially serving as a “basis” for concluding the war. The initial draft peace plan circulated in November raised concerns in Kyiv and across Europe, as it heavily leaned towards Moscow’s demands and dictated how several billion dollars worth of frozen Russian assets should be managed, alongside stipulations for Kyiv’s access to EU markets. Macron emphasized that any finalized plan must include input from both Ukraine and Europe.
The territorial question, Zelensky’s focus, can only be resolved by him, according to Macron, who added that the discussions around frozen assets, security guarantees, and EU accession must involve European nations as stakeholders. Despite efforts for peace, Macron noted the challenges ahead, expressing skepticism about Russia’s willingness to cease hostilities.
While the diplomatic efforts continue, the conflict rages on, marked by further violence. A recent missile strike in Dnipro resulted in four fatalities and numerous injuries, underscoring the urgency of resolving these tensions. Zelensky reiterated, “We are trying to end this war with all our might… Russia must end the war that it initiated.”
As Ukraine navigates the turbulent waters of diplomacy and an ongoing corruption scandal involving key officials, the focus remains on finding a resolution that safeguards its sovereignty and ensures lasting security.