Trump and Zelenskyy Report Substantial Progress Toward Russia-Ukraine Peace Deal

ISTANBUL — US President Donald Trump revealed on Sunday that considerable progress has been made in efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict following his recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

"We covered somebody would say 95%. I don’t know what percent, but we have made a lot of progress on ending that war, which is really certainly the most deadly war since World War Two, probably the biggest war since World War Two," Trump stated.

Trump indicated that the remaining aspects of the peace agreement could be finalized within weeks if negotiations continue smoothly. However, he acknowledged that one or two challenging issues remain, including disputes over territory seized during the conflict.

Additionally, Trump discussed Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction with Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing that Moscow is prepared to assist by providing energy, electricity, and other support at reduced costs. "Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed. President Putin was very generous in his feeling toward Ukraine succeeding," Trump said.

The US president expressed willingness to address Ukraine’s parliament if it would help accelerate the peace process, stating, "If it would help save 25,000 lives a month... I would certainly be willing to do that." He also suggested a trilateral summit involving himself, Zelenskyy, and Putin could occur when appropriate, saying, "I see that happening at the right time."

Regarding security guarantees for Ukraine, Trump mentioned cooperation with Europe, noting that European nations will lead much of the support effort with assistance from the US. When asked about Putin’s stance on a ceasefire allowing a referendum in Ukraine, Trump explained that Putin opposes temporary halts in fighting that could lead to renewed conflict, though he said alternative solutions are being explored.

President Zelenskyy described the discussions as "really great" and reported that 90% of a 20-point peace plan has been agreed upon. He underscored that US-Ukraine security guarantees have been fully agreed, while US-Europe-Ukraine security agreements are nearing completion. Zelenskyy added that the military component of the plan is settled, with a prosperity plan in progress.

"We also discussed the sequencing of the following actions, and we agree that security guarantees are a key milestone in achieving lasting peace," Zelenskyy remarked, acknowledging the difficult decisions that will face Ukrainian society. "If the plan will be very difficult for our society...our society has to choose...because it’s their land, not of one person."

Following talks with Trump and European leaders, Zelenskyy confirmed that teams from all sides will reconvene in the coming weeks to finalize the peace arrangements. He also announced that Trump will host Ukrainian and European leaders in Washington in January.

The meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy took place at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, where the US peace plan was a primary topic. Zelenskyy arrived in the United States on Sunday after visiting Canada.