Zelenskyy Urges Urgent Peace Talks Amid Russian Territorial Demands
UPDATE: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed today that ongoing U.S.-led peace negotiations are grappling with critical territorial disputes amid the relentless war with Russia. This urgent development highlights the contentious status of Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region and the strategically significant Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, one of the largest nuclear facilities globally.
During a press conference in Kyiv, Zelenskyy stated that negotiators are actively addressing the future of these contested areas and that Ukraine submitted a detailed 20-point peace proposal to the U.S. on December 10, 2025. While expressing gratitude for U.S. involvement, he emphasized the complexity of reaching a final agreement, saying, “It is still difficult to say what the final documents will look like.”
As negotiations intensify, Zelenskyy is set to engage in urgent discussions with leaders from approximately 30 nations, aiming to solidify Ukraine’s position in future settlements. He reiterated Ukraine’s firm stance against surrendering the Donbas region, where Russian forces are making aggressive advances.
The U.S. has proposed the establishment of a “free economic zone” in Donbas, a suggestion met with skepticism from Ukrainian officials. Zelenskyy articulated that any withdrawal of Ukrainian forces must be reciprocated by Russian troops, outlining a potential compromise that remains fraught with unanswered questions regarding the governance of the region.
The Zaporizhzhia plant, currently under Russian control, poses another significant hurdle. Zelenskyy noted that while the Americans have suggested a joint management structure, Ukraine remains opposed to any Russian oversight.
In a rapidly evolving situation, European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and French President Emmanuel Macron, are pushing for a collaborative approach to finalize peace proposals with U.S. officials over the weekend. “The talks are at a critical moment,” Merz stated, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these geopolitical tensions.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed a desire for a swift resolution, complicating the dynamics of the negotiations. European nations are concerned about their own security and are urging a balanced approach to prevent instability.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte raised alarms today, revealing that Russia has launched over 46,000 drones and missiles against Ukraine this year alone, underscoring the pressing need for a ceasefire. Rutte warned, “We are Russia’s next target,” highlighting the stakes involved in the ongoing conflict.
In a dramatic turn, Ukrainian drones have reportedly struck a Russian oil rig in the Caspian Sea, marking a significant escalation. This attack, coupled with one of Ukraine’s largest drone offensives to date, disrupted flights across Moscow and other cities, showcasing Ukraine’s tactical capabilities.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the upcoming meetings and potential agreements that could reshape the future of Ukraine and its relationships with global powers. The international community remains on high alert as peace efforts continue to grapple with entrenched demands and escalating military actions.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
