Trump and Zelenskiy Meet in Florida, See Ukraine Peace Within Reach

United States President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Sunday at Mar-a-Lago in Florida. The meeting aimed to discuss a 20-point peace plan proposed by Zelenskiy, which has raised concerns from Russia. Following a three-hour discussion and a meal, both leaders expressed cautious optimism to the media.

Details of the Meeting

Trump described the meeting as “excellent,” suggesting that peace was “much closer” than ever before. He revealed that he had conversations with several European leaders, including German Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Opposition Leader Keir Starmer, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Trump confirmed that discussions would continue over the next two weeks.

Zelenskiy highlighted two critical issues that both leaders termed “thorny”: the fate of Donetsk, a semi-occupied region in eastern Ukraine, and the control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, currently operated by Russia. He noted that there had been a “90% agreement” on certain points, particularly regarding security guarantees for Ukraine, which he claimed was at “100%.”

Challenges Ahead

Despite the positive tone, the meeting’s outcome was uncertain due to a last-minute development. Trump announced on his social media platform, Truth, that he had made a phone call to Russian President Vladimir Putin just before the meeting. The conversation, lasting approximately 75 minutes, focused on persuading Trump to abandon the 20-point plan in favor of a previous 27-point draft discussed in Alaska.

• Trump characterized the call with Putin as “positive and productive.”
• Zelenskiy arrived at Mar-a-Lago at 1:25 PM local time.
• Trump emphasized the need for a swift conclusion to the war.

Both leaders acknowledged the existing “obstacles” that remained, particularly concerning the territorial disputes. Trump’s stance reportedly demands Ukraine surrender 25% of the Donetsk region to become a demilitarized zone, while Ukraine insists on a reciprocal withdrawal from Russia.

International Relations and Future Steps

Following the meeting, Zelenskiy expressed concerns about the pace of negotiations, saying crucial decisions depend on how the U.S. and its European partners approach Russia. He characterized the current period as one of “heightened diplomatic activity.” Meanwhile, Trump has claimed that under his leadership, the United States could have resolved the conflict already.

Additional discussions on the management of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant are anticipated, as both Russia and Ukraine seek to exclude each other from decision-making. Zelenskiy insists that any potential peace agreement must be approved by the Ukrainian people through a referendum and calls for a ceasefire of at least two months.

Looking Ahead

Experts note that as the anniversary of the invasion approaches, both Trump and Zelenskiy must navigate intricate diplomatic waters. While Trump aims to forge a legacy as a peacemaker, the conditions needed for meaningful dialogue remain tenuous.

As the conflict approaches four years, with continual violence reported, the urgency for a resolution grows. Both leaders are aware that the quest for peace will require significant compromises and sustained international cooperation.