On December 28, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived at President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida, for high-stakes discussions aimed at brokering a peace deal to end the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.
The bilateral meeting followed Trump’s extensive two-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking a significant diplomatic effort in the conflict.
Zelenskyy Meets Trump at Mar-a-Lago Amid Push for Ukraine-Russia Peace Deal
Trump described the talks as “terrific,” stating that negotiators are “getting a lot closer, maybe very close” to a resolution, with approximately 95% of the issues addressed. Zelenskyy echoed the optimism, highlighting progress on a 20-point peace plan (90% agreed), U.S.-Ukraine security guarantees (100% agreed), and broader U.S.-Europe-Ukraine frameworks nearing completion.
Both leaders emphasized security guarantees as a cornerstone for lasting peace, with military and prosperity plans largely finalized.
Key sticking points include territorial disputes, particularly in the Donbas region, where Russia demands full concessions—a position Zelenskyy firmly rejected, stressing respect for Ukrainian law and sovereignty. Trump acknowledged the complexity, noting some land might be “up for grabs” and suggesting a demilitarized zone as a potential compromise, though no firm agreements were announced.
A ceasefire remains elusive, with Putin reportedly resistant to pausing hostilities only to resume later.
The meeting occurred against a backdrop of intensified Russian drone strikes on Kyiv overnight, underscoring the urgency. Trump affirmed Putin’s seriousness about peace, citing exhaustion among Ukrainian and Russian people alike.
Next steps involve continued negotiations, potentially including European leaders at the White House in the coming weeks. Trump suggested a deal could materialize in “a few weeks” if momentum holds, though he cautioned it’s a “very difficult negotiation.”
The U.S. delegation featured key figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and advisor Jared Kushner.
This development signals a potential breakthrough in the protracted conflict, but territorial and ceasefire hurdles loom large.
References:
- ABC News (Dec 28, 2025): https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/volodymyr-zelenskyy-arrives-mar-lago-peace-talks-president/story?id=128736611
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