"We're very close to ending Ukraine war", claims Trump as Putin rejects compromise

U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that the peace negotiations to end the Russia-Ukraine war are "closer than ever before" following a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago resort on December 28.

Trump described the discussions as a "terrific meeting" but cautioned that the process remains complicated and could still falter, potentially prolonging the war for years. He told reporters that clarity on a potential deal could emerge within weeks.

"We've made substantial progress on nearly every aspect of ending this war," Trump said after the talks.

He added that both sides are eager for peace, adding, "We're far closer than ever before, with everyone wanting this conflict resolved."

A key obstacle remains the status of the eastern Donbas region, where the proposed framework calls for halting fighting along current front lines and establishing a demilitarised zone. Russia has historically insisted on significant territorial concessions in the area.

"It's a difficult matter, but we're making headway, and I believe it will be settled," Trump said.

Zelenskyy echoed optimism, stating that the revised peace plan is approximately "90 per cent agreed upon," with full consensus reached on U.S.-Ukraine security guarantees. He highlighted ongoing work to finalise economic reconstruction details for Ukraine and the order of implementation steps.

The Ukrainian leader expressed willingness to consider elements of the U.S.-backed proposal, including potential territorial adjustments subject to approval via a national referendum. Zelenskyy welcomed Trump's offer to address Ukraine's parliament to advocate for the plan, though its necessity remains uncertain.

Zelenskyy, however, was seen maintaining a diplomatic tone throughout the visit.

Following their bilateral talks, the two presidents joined a conference call with several European leaders concerned about any agreement that might encourage further Russian aggression.

Zelenskyy indicated that he and European counterparts could return to Washington in January for additional discussions with Trump.

In contrast, Moscow has displayed little flexibility, buoyed by gradual battlefield advances. The Kremlin, summarising a prior phone call between Putin and Trump, urged Kyiv to withdraw forces from Donbas immediately and criticised European proposals for a temporary ceasefire as prolonging the conflict.

Russian officials reiterated opposition to Ukraine's NATO membership and warned that military action would continue absent a peaceful resolution favourable to Moscow. Putin stated recently that Russia would address its objectives through force if necessary.

The meeting occurred amid ongoing Russian strikes, including recent drone and missile attacks that disrupted power and heating for thousands in sub-zero conditions.

Also Read: “Congress to Lead Anti-BJP Alliance in Assam 2026, Will Contest 100 Seats”: Gaurav Gogoi