Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held extensive discussions with U.S. officials on Christmas Day, focusing on a potential peace framework to resolve the ongoing conflict with Russia. The talks, which lasted for over four hours, involved key figures including U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and former President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.
During these conversations, Zelenskyy expressed optimism about the progress made, stating, “It was a really good conversation, with lots of details and good ideas.” He emphasized the importance of the discussions, which included various proposals related to meeting formats and timelines for achieving lasting peace. Zelenskyy noted that some documents related to the negotiations were nearly finalized, indicating a significant step forward in the peace process.
The discussions come in the wake of Zelenskyy’s recent plea to European leaders in Brussels for a €210 billion “reparations loan” to Ukraine, which would be secured by frozen Russian state assets. Although the European Union leaders did not agree on the use of these assets, they approved a €90 billion loan backed by the EU budget.
Details of the Proposed Peace Framework
Earlier this week, Zelenskyy indicated that the draft framework to end the war had been streamlined from a previous 28-point plan to a more concise 20-point proposal. This updated plan includes essential security guarantees for Ukraine as well as for its European allies and the United States. Key components of the framework suggest that troop withdrawals from specific regions may be necessary to facilitate peace, a detail that has drawn the attention of the Kremlin.
A spokesperson for the Kremlin confirmed that they are “currently analyzing the materials” of the proposed framework, reflecting the ongoing scrutiny of the negotiations from the Russian side. As the talks progress, the situation remains precarious, particularly following a recent wave of aerial attacks by Russia on Ukraine. Reports indicate that these assaults resulted in at least three fatalities and left 17 others injured.
Zelenskyy has remained vigilant in light of these assaults, warning that the holiday season could provoke heightened military activity. “We understand that precisely on these days they may—this is in their nature—carry out massive strikes on Christmas,” he remarked on social media platform X.
As the holiday season unfolds, both U.S. and Ukrainian negotiators continue to pursue a path toward peace, with the discussions on Christmas Day marking a significant moment in ongoing efforts to reach a comprehensive agreement. The outcome of these talks could have lasting implications for the stability of Ukraine and its relationships with both the U.S. and European allies.
