No. 10 Downing Street has indicated that peace negotiations in Ukraine are currently in a delicate phase, emphasizing that Russian leader Vladimir Putin needs to halt the violence and actively participate in the talks.
This statement follows remarks made by US President Donald Trump less than 24 hours earlier, suggesting that a resolution to the conflict is closer than ever. Trump, who recently met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida, stated that discussions regarding a security guarantee are nearly 95% complete.
However, both leaders acknowledged the existence of challenging issues that still need to be addressed. Keir Starmer’s spokesperson expressed optimism for a peace agreement but highlighted the recent series of devastating Russian assaults on Ukraine over the weekend.
The spokesperson stressed that Putin must demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace by ceasing hostilities and actively engaging in the negotiation process. Collaboration with Ukrainian and US counterparts has been ongoing to finalize a deal that prevents future Russian invasions.
Zelensky disclosed that the US has proposed security assurances for a 15-year period as part of a potential peace initiative, though he expressed a preference for a 50-year commitment to deter Russian aggression. The Ukrainian president emphasized the necessity of security guarantees to bring an end to the conflict, with hopes that negotiations could reach a conclusion before the anniversary of Russia’s invasion next month.
While specific details of the security guarantees remain undisclosed, Zelensky mentioned the involvement of “partners” in the arrangement. However, potential disagreements may arise, as Putin has rejected the idea of NATO troop deployments in Ukraine.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that Russian forces are advancing in the eastern Donetsk region and intensifying their offensive in the southern Zaporizhzhia region. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov mentioned that Putin is expected to hold discussions with the US President soon, but there is no indication of direct communication with Zelensky.
Trump expressed optimism about the progress of negotiations, stating that a peace agreement is closer than ever before. Plans are underway for European leaders and a Ukrainian delegation to visit Washington in January for further talks.
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