U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks in Florida on Sunday as part of renewed diplomatic efforts to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. While both sides signaled progress, the discussions did not result in a final agreement.
The meeting, held at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, lasted nearly three hours and focused on a proposed peace framework developed through extensive consultations between senior U.S. and Ukrainian officials. According to U.S. media reports, the talks narrowed differences on several issues but failed to resolve key disputes.
President Trump also held telephone conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin both before and after meeting Zelenskyy, underscoring Washington’s parallel engagement with Moscow. Following the talks, Trump and Zelenskyy separately briefed reporters, acknowledging advances while confirming that critical matters remain unresolved.
Territory Remains the Main Point of Disagreement
Zelenskyy said agreement had been reached on most elements of the proposed plan, estimating that roughly 90 percent of the provisions were settled. Trump did not cite a specific figure but said the sides were “very close” to an understanding.
The most contentious issue continues to be control over territory, particularly eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region. Russia has insisted that the area should fall under its control, although it does not occupy the entire region. Ukraine has repeatedly stated that it cannot cede any of its territory.
As a potential compromise, Trump has proposed turning Donbas into a special economic zone. Russia has shown limited openness to the idea, while Ukraine has said any final decision on territory must be made through a referendum.
Outline of the Proposed Peace Framework
International news agency Reuters reported that the draft peace plan discussed by U.S. and Ukrainian officials includes 20 key points. Among them are recognition of Ukraine’s sovereignty, a non-aggression agreement between Russia and Ukraine, robust international security guarantees for Kyiv, and long-term economic and reconstruction support.
The framework also envisions strict monitoring along the border, limits on changes to agreed territorial arrangements by force, guarantees for Ukraine’s trade access through the Dnipro River and the Black Sea, the return of prisoners of war and displaced civilians, and elections in Ukraine following the signing of a peace agreement. A U.S.-led council chaired by President Trump would oversee implementation.
Next Steps Unclear
The Florida meeting confirmed that negotiations are ongoing and that both sides see potential for progress. However, the absence of agreement on territorial issues highlights the challenges that remain.
Further talks are expected in the coming weeks. Whether they will lead to a ceasefire and a broader settlement will depend on the willingness of all parties to compromise on the most sensitive issues at the heart of the conflict.
