Breakthrough on Peace? Zelenskyy Ready to Advance US-Backed Plan, Eyes Direct Talks with Trump on ‘Sensitive Points’

Kyiv Signals Support for Peace Framework, Insists on Direct Talks with Trump to Resolve Key Sticking Points, Including Territorial Concessions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that Kyiv is ready to move forward with a US-backed peace plan, signaling a significant step toward a potential end to the conflict with Russia. Speaking to the “coalition of the willing” allies, the President stated that the updated framework—which has been refined from an initial 28 points—is “on the table,” and Ukraine is prepared to advance the process.

This development follows high-stakes negotiations in Geneva between US and Ukrainian officials, which reportedly resulted in a streamlined, 19-point framework. The original, controversial proposal included demands for territorial concessions and military limitations that Kyiv had previously rejected.

Discussing ‘Sensitive Points’ Directly with President Trump

In a strategic move, President Zelenskyy confirmed he will discuss the sensitive issues—the most “delicate points”—directly with US President Donald Trump. This high-level engagement is anticipated to address the core disagreements that remain, particularly those concerning Ukraine’s territorial integrity and its future security arrangements.

• Territorial Concessions: Ukrainian diplomats have indicated that yielding territory remains a major sticking point that requires a direct presidential decision.
• Security Guarantees: Kyiv is also advocating for a framework for deploying a “reassurance force” in Ukraine, urging European leaders to formalize this commitment.

European Allies and the Call for Inclusivity

Crucially, Zelenskyy stressed that the talks should include European allies. He asserted that “security decisions about Ukraine must include Ukraine, [and] security decisions about Europe must include Europe.” This is a clear effort to ensure any final agreement is not decided “behind the back” of the country or its partners, providing a buffer against potentially disadvantageous terms. The involvement of European partners is viewed by Kyiv as essential for ensuring the stability and enforceability of the peace agreement.

Momentum Builds for a Deal

The announcement comes amidst a flurry of diplomatic activity. White House officials have touted “tremendous progress” in the negotiations, with President Trump expressing optimism that a deal on Ukraine is “very close.” The concentrated diplomatic push suggests a mutual desire to secure a resolution quickly, potentially leading to a meeting between Zelenskyy and Trump as early as this month to finalize the remaining points of the Zelenskyy US Peace Plan Trump discussions.

Despite the momentum, the path to a comprehensive deal remains challenging. While Kyiv supports the framework’s essence, the resolution of territorial and security questions will be the ultimate test of this diplomatic push. The world watches to see if these high-stakes, leader-level talks can finally bring an end to the brutal conflict.