Zelenskyy Reveals Urgent U.S.-Led Peace Talks on Ukraine Territory

UPDATE: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that U.S.-led peace talks are intensifying, focusing on contentious territorial issues with Russia. The discussions, which began earlier today, are crucial for determining the future of Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region and the strategically significant Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Zelenskyy disclosed these developments as he prepared for urgent talks with leaders from approximately 30 countries committed to supporting Ukraine’s efforts for a just settlement to nearly four years of conflict. He emphasized the complexity of negotiations, particularly regarding territorial claims, during a press conference in Kyiv.

“We are grateful that the U.S. is working with us and trying to take a balanced position,” Zelenskyy stated. However, he cautioned, “it is still difficult to say what the final documents will look like.” The urgency of these discussions arises from Russia’s recent aggressive maneuvers to consolidate control over Donetsk and the surrounding Donbas industrial region.

Earlier, Ukraine submitted a 20-point plan to the U.S., each point potentially accompanied by detailed settlement terms. Among the proposals discussed is the creation of a “free economic zone” in Donbas, a suggestion met with skepticism from Russian officials, who prefer a “demilitarized zone.”

Zelenskyy indicated that a critical sticking point remains: if Ukraine withdraws its forces from Donetsk, Russian troops must also retreat. “Both sides remaining where they currently stand along the line of contact would be a fair outcome,” he noted.

In addition to territorial disputes, the management of the Zaporizhzhia plant is under scrutiny. U.S. negotiators have proposed a joint management format, a suggestion that has yet to see consensus.

As the negotiations unfold, leaders from Germany, Britain, and France participated in the Coalition of the Willing meeting via video link. The hastily arranged talks reflect the urgency for European nations to steer discussions amid rising concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump’s approach to the conflict.

“The talks are at a critical moment,” stated German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, highlighting the necessity for a unified front in finalizing peace proposals.

The international community is watching closely as Trump’s efforts to broker a settlement face delays. Initial deadlines for reaching an agreement have passed without significant progress, raising alarm among European leaders who believe their own security is at stake.

The backdrop of these discussions is fraught with tension, as Russia continues to assert its presence on the battlefield. In a recent call with military leaders, Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that Russian forces maintain the strategic initiative, even as Ukrainian officials dispute claims of significant territorial gains.

Compounding the situation, Ukrainian forces have launched a series of drone attacks, including a significant operation targeting a Russian oil rig in the Caspian Sea, disrupting operations and sending a clear message of resilience.

As the U.S. and European nations coordinate their next steps, Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine will engage in bilateral discussions with European partners next week. The upcoming EU summit in Brussels will also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of these negotiations.

Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds. The implications of these talks could reshape the geopolitical landscape in Eastern Europe.