Zelenskyy Seeks Trump Meeting Over Territorial Disputes

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for a direct meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump to finalize the most sensitive details of a proposed peace agreement with Russia.

This request follows recent high-level talks in Miami, where U.S. and Ukrainian negotiators moved significantly closer to a comprehensive 20-point framework.

While progress has been made on broad political and security goals, Zelenskyy emphasized that matters regarding territorial control require a decision at the leaders’ level.

Evolution of the 20-Point Framework

Negotiators are currently refining a foundational document designed to end the conflict. Zelenskyy described this draft as a major evolution of earlier proposals.

Key points of the current framework include:

• Military Strength: Ukraine would maintain an army of 800,000 personnel to ensure future stability.
• Security Guarantees: Robust assurances from a “Coalition of the Willing” would protect Ukraine against renewed aggression.
• Economic Recovery: The plan includes roadmaps for reconstruction and international investment.

The Territorial and Energy Standoff

Despite consensus on 90% of the framework, two major obstacles remain:

• Donetsk Region: Ukraine proposes a “remain where we are” approach at current battle lines. In contrast, Moscow demands a full Ukrainian withdrawal from the eastern Donetsk region.
• Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant: The status of Europe’s largest nuclear facility is still under debate. While the U.S. has suggested a three-way operation, Ukraine is proposing a joint 50-50 enterprise with the United States.

To bridge these gaps, Washington is exploring the creation of demilitarized zones or free economic zones in contested areas.

Next Steps for the Peace Deal

President Zelenskyy noted that the latest proposal will be reviewed by Moscow. He warned that if an agreement on the current lines of contact cannot be reached, the conflict may continue or require unconventional economic solutions for disputed regions.

“Matters such as territorial questions must be discussed at the leaders’ level,” Zelenskyy stated. “If all regions are included and we remain where we are, we can reach an agreement.”