President Donald Trump said the United States, Russia and Ukraine are “maybe very close” to a peace deal following meetings and calls with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump met with Zelenskyy on Sunday at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.
Trump described the talks as productive, saying negotiators have addressed roughly “95%” of the issues needed to end the war.
Meetings With Putin and Zelenskyy
Trump said his more than two-hour phone call with Putin helped move discussions forward, followed by what he called a “terrific” in-person meeting with Zelenskyy. He also spoke with European leaders afterward, saying those conversations went well.
Zelenskyy thanked Trump for hosting the meeting and said negotiations are nearing completion. He cited progress on a 20-point peace plan, U.S.-Ukraine security guarantees, and military arrangements, while noting that some elements are still being finalized.
Territory Remains the Hardest Issue
Trump acknowledged that territorial disputes remain the most difficult obstacle, particularly in eastern Ukraine. While progress has been made, he said it would be inaccurate to claim agreements are finalized, including on possible land swaps or a demilitarized zone in the Donbas.
Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine’s position on territory is “very clear,” emphasizing respect for Ukrainian law and sovereignty, while acknowledging that Kyiv and Moscow remain far apart on the issue.
Ceasefire Talks Still Uncertain
A ceasefire remains another sticking point. Trump said Putin is hesitant to pause fighting without assurances, fearing hostilities could resume. Trump said negotiators are working to find alternatives that could move talks forward.
Despite ongoing Russian attacks, Trump said he believes Putin is serious about ending the war, adding that people in both countries want the conflict to end.
What Comes Next
Both leaders said negotiations will continue in the coming weeks. Trump said future meetings could take place in Washington with Zelenskyy and European leaders.
“If things go really well,” Trump said, a deal could come together within weeks — though he cautioned that a breakthrough is not guaranteed, calling the talks “a very difficult negotiation.”
For more on the potential for a peace deal on the Russia-Ukraine war, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.