US President Donald Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Mar-a-Lago on December 28, 2025, signaling a potential end to the nearly four-year Russia-Ukraine war.
Trump revealed a draft peace agreement stands at 95% complete, with both sides eager to finalize despite lingering territorial disputes. Following a productive call with Vladimir Putin, optimism grows, though challenges like Donbas control persist.
Trump-Zelenskyy Peace Talks : Key Moments from Mar-a-Lago Summit
Trump welcomed Zelenskyy with a firm handshake, praising his bravery and noting Russia’s aversion to a simple ceasefire. Zelenskyy highlighted 90% progress on a 20-point plan, thanking Trump’s team including envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Discussions covered Donbas future, with Zelenskyy proposing a 60-90 day ceasefire, demilitarized zone, and possible referendum.
Trump offered to address Ukraine’s parliament in Kyiv, while acknowledging Putin’s peace interest post their one-hour call. European leaders joined via video, as Ukrainian delegates like Rustem Umerov pushed for US-European security guarantees. Notably, Trump sidestepped recent Russian strikes on Kyiv, equating attacks from both sides.
Sticking Points and Russian Stance
Outstanding issues center on eastern territories, including north Donetsk, where Putin demands handover and rejects ceasefires as prolonging conflict. Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov confirmed Trump heard Russia’s view, insisting no renewal of hostilities. Zelenskyy countered with withdrawal proposals, but Trump offers no firm military pledges, echoing November’s 28-point plan critics called capitulation.
Russia advanced in five settlements like Myrnohrad pre-talks, signaling momentum, while Ukraine reclaimed Kupiansk areas and struck a Russian refinery. Analysts note Russia’s absence from tables risks deal fragility, as ongoing offensives undermine trust.
Trump-Zelenskyy Peace Talks : Broader Context and Recent Escalations
Talks follow massive Russian drone-missile barrages on Kyiv, killing four and blacking out 500,000 amid Zelenskyy’s peace push with Canada’s Mark Carney. Relations thawed since February’s tensions; prior meetings at Vatican and White House improved ties. Zelenskyy updated UK PM Keir Starmer, stressing Russian pressure and support needs.
Trump’s neutral stance—no condemnation of civilian hits—reflects balanced diplomacy, contrasting warmer Putin receptions like Alaska’s summit.
Will Peace Hold Without Putin?
Progress seems real at 95%, yet maximalist Russian demands and battlefield gains cast doubt. Trump’s leverage via prior Moscow talks aids, but experts warn one-sided pacts falter without aggressor buy-in. Could a deal reshape Europe? Security voids loom largest.
Q&A: Talks Highlights
Q: How close is the peace deal?
A: Trump says 95% done; Zelenskyy notes 90% on draft, with territory as main hurdle.
Q: What did Trump tell Putin?
A: Post one-hour call deemed “productive,” Trump believes Putin seeks end to avoid prolongation.
Q: What’s Zelenskyy’s Donbas plan?
A: Demilitarized zone, mutual withdrawal, 60-90 day ceasefire, potential referendum.
Q: Any US security commitments?
A: None firm; focuses bilateral issues, hopes Europe joins guarantees.
Q: How do recent attacks factor?
A: Kyiv hit by 500+ drones/missiles pre-talks; Trump views symmetrically without blame.
FAQ
When did talks occur?
December 28, 2025, at Mar-a-Lago, Florida—hours after Trump-Putin call.
Why no red carpet for Zelenskyy?
Businesslike entry contrasts Putin’s Alaska welcome; focuses substance over optics.
Does Russia agree to ceasefire?
No—views as risky renewal; pushes territorial gains first.
Who joined US side?
Witkoff, Kushner, Rubio, Hegseth, Wiles, Gen. Caine.
Can war end rapidly?
Trump predicts quick if willing; else “very long time” looms.
These high-stakes talks mark a pivotal juncture, balancing optimism with realism. As drafts near completion, global eyes watch for breakthroughs amid active fronts. Stay updated for referendum votes or Kyiv addresses. (
