No. 10 Downing Street has emphasized that peace negotiations in Ukraine are currently in a delicate phase, urging Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt the violence and actively participate in the discussions.
This statement follows remarks made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently suggested that an agreement to end the conflict in Ukraine is closer to realization than ever before. Trump, who met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida over the weekend, mentioned that talks regarding a security assurance are nearly 95% complete.
Despite these positive developments, both leaders acknowledged the presence of challenging issues that still need to be addressed. Keir Starmer’s spokesperson expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing the need for Putin to demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace by ceasing hostilities and engaging constructively in the negotiation process.
President Zelensky disclosed that the United States has proposed security guarantees for a 15-year period as part of a potential peace agreement. However, he indicated a preference for a longer-term commitment of up to 50 years to deter future Russian aggression, stating that without such assurances, the conflict is unlikely to be resolved. Talks are anticipated to intensify in the coming weeks ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
While specific details of the security guarantees remain undisclosed, Zelensky mentioned that they involve the involvement of international partners. Notably, Putin has expressed opposition to the deployment of NATO troops in Ukraine, potentially posing a challenge to reaching a consensus.
Reports suggest that Russian forces are advancing in the Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions, with the Kremlin confirming ongoing military actions. Discussions between Putin and the current U.S. President are anticipated in the near future, although it remains uncertain whether Putin will engage directly with Zelensky.
During a recent press briefing, Trump indicated optimism about the progress of negotiations, stating that all parties involved are highly motivated to achieve a resolution. Plans are in place for European leaders and a Ukrainian delegation to meet with Trump for further discussions in January, potentially in Washington, to advance the peace process.