Trump and Zelensky Say Peace Talks Are in Final Stage After Mar-a-Lago Meeting

Overview

• Trump said the parties are very close to a deal, citing roughly 95% agreement on security guarantees and creating joint U.S.–Ukraine working groups to keep talks moving within weeks.
• Zelensky said about 90% of the 20‑point U.S. draft is agreed and announced that delegations will reconvene next week with a potential follow‑up in Washington in January alongside European leaders.
• Trump spoke with Vladimir Putin before the meeting in a call both sides called productive, and the Kremlin said Trump and Putin do not support a temporary ceasefire before a final agreement.
• Territorial arrangements in Donbas remain the core impasse, with Russia pressing for full control as Ukraine seeks to freeze current lines; proposals under discussion include a demilitarized or special economic zone and shared oversight of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant.
• A large Russian strike using roughly 500 drones and 40 missiles hit Kyiv and infrastructure on the eve of the talks, heightening urgency as European allies back a durable peace while warning against concessions that shift long‑term costs onto Europe.