MAR-A-LAGO, FLORIDA: A high-profile meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on a potential Russia-Ukraine ceasefire concluded after more than two hours without any major breakthrough, according to international media reports.
The discussions, held at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, focused on various aspects of a peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. However, key issues concerning the future of Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region remain unresolved, and the two leaders were unable to reach a definitive agreement on the matter.
Following the meeting, President Trump stated that both sides are “close to an agreement” to end the conflict but acknowledged that some aspects of the peace plan remain undecided. He described certain unexpected obstacles as complicating the negotiation process, warning that delays could allow Russia to seize additional territory in Ukraine. “It would be better for Ukraine to finalize a deal soon, otherwise Russia may expand its control further,” Trump said.
Regarding the Donbas region, Trump noted that several critical issues are still pending resolution. While he expressed optimism about progress, he cautioned that the complexities involved could affect the overall peace process.
President Zelensky, speaking after the meeting, confirmed that U.S. and Ukrainian negotiators have made significant progress over recent weeks, with agreement reportedly reached on 90 percent of the draft peace plan. Zelensky emphasized that the final decision regarding Donbas must ultimately be made by the Ukrainian people.
International reports highlight that the Donbas region remains a major sticking point in the negotiations. Russia is reportedly seeking full control over the area, with President Vladimir Putin insisting that Ukraine must withdraw from territories under Russian influence.
Zelensky also mentioned that Trump proposed transforming Donbas into a free economic zone. He indicated that Ukraine could consider withdrawing its military forces from the eastern industrial region of Donbas on the condition that Russia reciprocates by pulling back its troops and placing the area under international supervision as a demilitarized zone.
The meeting reflects the continuing challenges in negotiating a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war, with both sides navigating complex territorial, political, and security issues. Analysts say that while progress has been made on several points, the Donbas question will likely remain the most difficult obstacle to achieving a lasting peace agreement.
Observers note that the Trump-Zelensky talks underscore the ongoing international effort to resolve the conflict, but also highlight the fragility of negotiations and the potential for renewed hostilities if key points are not addressed promptly.
