Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that several critical obstacles remain in ongoing discussions with the United States aimed at forging a potential framework to end Russia's war. The comments, made last week, highlight the complex path towards a negotiated settlement.
Core Stumbling Blocks in the Negotiations
Speaking about a 20-point plan under discussion, Zelenskyy outlined the most difficult areas where consensus has yet to be reached. He confirmed that Ukraine's position has been conveyed to Washington, which is expected to relay it to Moscow.
On Friday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov acknowledged contact with US representatives, following a meeting in Florida between Russian presidential envoy Kirill Dmitriev and US envoys. Peskov stated, "It was agreed upon to continue the dialogue," but offered no further details.
Security, Territory, and Nuclear Safety at Issue
The unresolved issues are profound and centre on three main pillars:
Security guarantees: Talks continue over the precise nature and scope of assurances that would be provided to Ukraine under any future agreement. Zelenskyy noted several technical issues are outstanding, including how such guarantees would be enforced and what monitoring mechanisms would ensure compliance.
Territory: Zelenskyy identified the fate of territories claimed by Russia as the most difficult issue. While not providing new details, he reiterated Kyiv's consistent position: it will not recognise Russian control over regions occupied since the full-scale invasion began in 2022, nor will it cede territories it currently controls—a key Russian demand.
Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant: The future of the Russian-occupied facility, Europe's largest nuclear plant, remains unresolved. Ukraine insists that safe operation requires the complete demilitarisation of the site and full access for Ukrainian workers, conditions not currently met. Discussions have revealed a potential joint-access format involving all three sides—the US, Ukraine, and Russia—is under consideration.
Path Forward and Broader Considerations
Zelenskyy indicated that further discussions between Ukrainian and US teams are expected, including potential talks in Florida. Beyond the immediate security framework, separate documents on economic recovery and prosperity are also being considered, pointing to the long-term planning underway alongside efforts to halt the fighting.
The admission of unresolved key issues underscores the significant gaps that remain between the warring parties, even as diplomatic channels, facilitated by the United States, remain active. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether these fundamental obstacles can be bridged.
