Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set for a critical meeting with former US President Donald Trump this weekend, with the ambitious goal of sealing a peace agreement for Ukraine before the new year.
High-Stakes Summit at Mar-a-Lago
The talks are scheduled to take place at Mr Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida on Sunday, 28 December 2025. President Zelensky has revealed that his comprehensive 20-point peace plan is now "90 per cent ready" for finalisation. He expressed strong hope that the agreement could be formally signed off by Donald Trump prior to the start of 2026, with European leaders potentially participating in the process via online connections.
Key Issues on the Negotiating Table
Discussions during the Florida summit are expected to focus on several pivotal and unresolved matters central to the conflict. Territorial disputes in the Donbas region will be a primary topic, alongside the precarious situation surrounding the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Crucially, the talks will also address the framework for long-term security guarantees for Ukraine, a point of paramount importance for Kyiv's future sovereignty.
In a significant development indicating back-channel preparations, Moscow has confirmed it has analysed the Ukrainian proposals. These were reportedly brought back by Vladimir Putin’s special envoy. Russian officials also acknowledged that contact has occurred between Russian and US officials regarding the matter.
Peace Talks Amid Continued Russian Strikes
The diplomatic push unfolds against a backdrop of ongoing military aggression. While peace efforts intensify, Russia has continued its assaults on Ukraine’s critical energy infrastructure. Recent days have seen further drone and missile strikes targeting cities including Odesa and Kharkiv, underscoring the urgent need for a durable ceasefire and political solution.
The outcome of this weekend's high-profile meeting in Florida will be closely watched by global capitals, as it could mark a decisive turning point in one of Europe's most devastating conflicts in decades.
