Speaking during an official visit to Vilnius, Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Ukraine is now waiting only for confirmation from its partners on the date and venue for signing the agreement.

According to Zelenskiy, the proposed guarantees place the United States at the centre of Ukraine’s future security framework, reflecting Kyiv’s belief that American backing is essential for long-term stability.

He added that once the document is signed, it will move to the next stage of democratic approval through ratification in both the US Congress and the Ukrainian parliament.

The announcement follows a fresh round of diplomatic engagement aimed at exploring pathways to end the nearly four-year conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

Over the weekend, negotiators from Ukraine and Russia met in Abu Dhabi alongside US mediators for the first trilateral talks of this kind, though no final agreement was reached.

Despite the lack of a breakthrough, officials from both Moscow and Kyiv signalled a willingness to continue discussions, suggesting that diplomatic momentum has not entirely stalled.

Zelenskiy described the talks as difficult but noted that the number of contentious issues under discussion has decreased compared to earlier stages.

Central to the negotiations is a US-backed framework reportedly containing around 20 points, designed to outline possible steps toward de-escalation and a political settlement.

While many of these points remain sensitive, Zelenskiy indicated that progress has been made in narrowing disagreements, even if core differences persist.

One of the most divisive issues continues to be territorial control in eastern Ukraine, where fighting has raged since the start of the full-scale invasion.

Zelenskiy said Russia is pressing Ukraine to abandon claims over regions it has failed to fully occupy, a demand Kyiv has firmly rejected.

Ukraine’s position, he stressed, remains unchanged, with territorial integrity seen as non-negotiable under international law.

Any proposal that compromises Ukraine’s sovereignty, Zelenskiy said, would be unacceptable to both the government and the Ukrainian public.

The Ukrainian leader acknowledged that compromise is a necessary part of diplomacy but argued that it cannot come at the cost of fundamental national principles.

He added that mediators, including the United States, face the difficult task of bridging two fundamentally different positions held by Kyiv and Moscow.

If signed, the US security guarantees document could reshape Ukraine’s defence posture and its relationship with Western allies.

Analysts say such guarantees may deter future aggression by clarifying the extent of international support Ukraine would receive in the event of renewed conflict.

Zelenskiy’s remarks in Vilnius also highlighted the importance of continued European engagement, as Ukraine works closely with regional partners such as Lithuania and Poland.

These alliances, he said, reinforce Ukraine’s diplomatic standing and underline the broader regional stakes involved in ending the war.

While uncertainty remains over the timing and outcome of further talks, Kyiv appears eager to maintain diplomatic pressure while strengthening its security arrangements.

For Ukraine, the completion of the US guarantees document represents not an end to the conflict, but a potential foundation for a more secure future.

Speaking after the talks, Zelenskiy said the framework for security guarantees for Ukraine had been finalised, marking a key step forward in negotiations that Kyiv sees as essential to any lasting peace. However, he stressed that territorial integrity remains the most sensitive and unresolved issue, underscoring the deep divisions that still exist between the warring sides.

Zelenskiy also announced that negotiators from Ukraine, Russia and the United States are set to hold trilateral talks for the first time in Abu Dhabi on Friday and Saturday. He framed the meetings as a positive development and a potential breakthrough, as direct engagement among all three parties has been limited since the conflict began.

Alongside security discussions, Zelenskiy said an agreement on Ukraine’s post-war economic recovery is close to completion. Such a deal would be a cornerstone of Kyiv’s strategy to rebuild infrastructure and revive growth after years of devastation, while also countering earlier peace proposals that Ukrainian officials believe leaned too heavily in Moscow’s favour.

Both leaders struck an optimistic tone after their meeting. Trump told reporters the discussion with Zelenskiy had been good and described the peace process as ongoing, while reiterating his belief that the war must end. He confirmed that U.S. envoys were travelling to Moscow to continue talks, adding to a flurry of high-level diplomatic activity.

Zelenskiy, who has made security guarantees a precondition for broader negotiations, said earlier this week that he would only attend Davos if agreements with Washington could be reached. Ukraine continues to face an energy crisis at home after repeated Russian air strikes damaged power and heating infrastructure, leaving millions without basic services during winter.

The Ukrainian leader accused Russia of attempting to freeze civilians into submission through sustained attacks on energy facilities, describing the strategy as a form of warfare against the population. He questioned why Russian President Vladimir Putin had not yet faced accountability, drawing comparisons with other international cases pursued by the United States.

U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff said progress was being made in peace talks after meeting Ukrainian and Russian officials in Davos. He added that if all sides genuinely wanted a solution, an agreement was achievable, echoing cautious optimism among diplomats observing the process.

Witkoff and fellow U.S. envoy Jared Kushner were expected to meet Putin in Moscow later on Thursday, before heading to Abu Dhabi for further discussions. The talks are set to include military-level contacts and debate over a broader economic package linked to a potential settlement.

Russia has reacted cautiously to the U.S.-led initiative, maintaining demands that Ukraine cede parts of eastern territory, including areas Moscow has struggled to fully control militarily. Putin has said discussions would include reconstruction of occupied regions and proposals for new international peace mechanisms.

Financial markets responded positively to the diplomatic activity, with Ukraine’s international bonds rallying as investors grew hopeful that negotiations could lead to an end to Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War Two. Despite the talks, fighting continued on the ground, with Russian strikes hitting several Ukrainian cities and causing civilian casualties.

The meeting, to take place in Florida, reflects growing momentum around a structured peace framework that both Kyiv and Washington believe could unlock progress after years of devastating conflict.

Zelenskiy has indicated that the discussions will focus on the most sensitive and complex issues, including territorial questions and long-term security guarantees for Ukraine.

He expressed optimism that meaningful decisions could be reached before the New Year, underlining a sense of urgency and opportunity in the current diplomatic window.

Central to the talks is a nearly finalized 20-point peace framework, which Ukrainian officials say is close to completion and designed to provide a comprehensive roadmap toward a ceasefire.

Alongside this, a bilateral security guarantee agreement between Ukraine and the United States is also nearing readiness, signaling Washington’s continued commitment to Ukraine’s future stability.

Zelenskiy has emphasized that any discussions on territory are being approached with caution, transparency, and respect for democratic principles.

He has reiterated that decisions involving land or sovereignty must ultimately be made by the Ukrainian people, potentially through a national referendum if a ceasefire is agreed.

The Donbas region remains one of the most challenging elements of the negotiations, given its strategic importance and the heavy toll the fighting has taken on civilians and infrastructure.

Ukraine has consistently maintained that halting hostilities along current battle lines is essential to saving lives and creating space for long-term political solutions.

Another key topic expected on the agenda is the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Europe’s largest, which has become a symbol of the risks the war poses beyond the battlefield.

Ensuring the plant’s safety and preventing further escalation around critical infrastructure remains a shared priority for international stakeholders.

Zelenskiy has also signaled openness to discussing economic cooperation as part of a broader peace package, viewing recovery and reconstruction as inseparable from security.

Such economic discussions could lay the groundwork for post-war rebuilding, foreign investment, and renewed regional integration once hostilities subside.

The upcoming talks follow parallel engagements between Russian and U.S. officials, suggesting intensified diplomatic activity across multiple channels.

Observers note that sustained engagement among major powers increases the likelihood of narrowing differences and identifying practical compromises.

Despite continued violence on the ground, Ukrainian leaders stress that diplomacy must move forward alongside defense efforts.

Recent attacks have reinforced the urgency of reaching an agreement that can protect civilians and stabilize frontline regions.

Zelenskiy has described the Florida meeting as an opportunity to refine existing drafts, resolve outstanding details, and assess whether conditions are right for formal agreements.

While no confirmation has been given that documents will be signed during the visit, Ukrainian officials have made clear that they are prepared for tangible outcomes.

International analysts view the talks as a potential turning point, particularly given the advanced stage of the proposed peace framework.

The involvement of top leadership on both sides underscores the seriousness with which the negotiations are being treated.

For Ukraine, the objective remains clear: a just and lasting peace that preserves sovereignty, ensures security, and enables national recovery.

For the United States, facilitating an end to the conflict aligns with broader goals of regional stability and global security.

As the meeting approaches, expectations are cautiously hopeful, with diplomats emphasizing progress over symbolism.

The coming days may prove decisive in shaping the next phase of the war and the prospects for peace in Europe.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy welcomed the initiative, describing it as a constructive step that could broaden participation and strengthen the chances of meaningful progress.

According to Ukrainian officials, the proposed framework envisions discussions that would involve Ukraine, the United States, Russia, and potentially key European partners.

This wider configuration reflects an understanding that lasting peace requires coordinated engagement from all major stakeholders invested in regional security and global stability.

President Zelenskiy emphasized that Kyiv is approaching the proposal with openness and careful consideration, underscoring Ukraine’s consistent position in favor of diplomatic solutions that respect sovereignty and international law.

He noted that Ukraine would assess the format further once ongoing bilateral talks with U.S. representatives demonstrate clear and positive momentum.

The renewed diplomatic push comes amid intensified shuttle diplomacy led by Washington, which has sought to bridge gaps and encourage confidence-building measures after months of limited direct contact between the parties.

Observers view this as a sign of sustained international resolve to prevent further escalation and to create pathways toward de-escalation.

European participation, while not yet fully defined, is seen as a natural extension of the talks, given Europe’s close political, economic, and security ties to Ukraine.

Analysts say European involvement could help reinforce guarantees, align diplomatic messaging, and support post-conflict recovery planning.

Ukraine’s leadership has repeatedly stressed that dialogue must be grounded in transparency and fairness, with the primary objective of ending hostilities and reducing human suffering

Zelenskiy reiterated that any negotiation format must deliver tangible outcomes, including humanitarian relief, prisoner exchanges, and improved security conditions.

Recent discussions between Ukrainian, American, and European representatives have reportedly focused on coordination and future engagement, laying the groundwork for continued talks.

Ukrainian officials expressed confidence that consistent communication among allies strengthens Kyiv’s negotiating position and ensures unity in international efforts.

The proposed format also reflects Washington’s broader diplomatic strategy of acting as a facilitator while encouraging direct engagement among the affected parties.

U.S. officials have signaled that they remain committed to supporting dialogue that can lead to a durable and just peace, while remaining attentive to the concerns of Ukraine and its partners.

For Ukraine, the prospect of a broader negotiating table represents an opportunity to ensure that its perspectives are fully represented and supported.

Zelenskiy highlighted the importance of maintaining close consultation with Ukraine’s negotiating team to evaluate how the talks can best serve national interests.

As diplomatic activity intensifies, optimism has cautiously grown among international observers who see the expanded format as a practical way to reduce tensions and build trust incrementally.

While challenges remain, the willingness of multiple parties to engage signals a shared recognition that dialogue remains the most viable path forward.

The coming weeks are expected to clarify the structure and timing of the proposed talks, as Ukraine continues to work closely with its allies.

For now, the initiative stands as a positive development, reinforcing hopes that sustained diplomacy can move the region closer to peace and long-term stability.

The remarks come at a moment when global attention remains focused on pathways toward a sustainable settlement that prevents further escalation and strengthens regional stability.

President Vladimir Putin, speaking ahead of his upcoming visit to New Delhi, said that Moscow expects a resolution that ensures its strategic goals in Donetsk and Luhansk.

At the same time, officials emphasized that discussions with multiple nations, including the United States and partners in Asia, are aimed at pursuing diplomatic channels that keep negotiations open.

Russian authorities maintain that the long conflict in eastern Ukraine began years before the full-scale escalation, shaped by tensions between Ukrainian forces and local groups.

Moscow continues to argue that its interests in Donbas are tied to security concerns and cultural ties, although Kyiv rejects any proposal involving territorial concessions.

Despite stark differences between the two sides, recent engagements with U.S. representatives have drawn international attention.

Putin received envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Moscow, calling the meeting productive and describing the dialogue as grounded in proposals earlier discussed with U.S. leadership.

Russian state media highlighted that Moscow has accepted some ideas put forward in ongoing diplomatic exchanges, framing the talks as an important step toward identifying areas of mutual understanding.

While details remain undisclosed, the acknowledgement of progress has been seen by analysts as a positive gesture toward keeping diplomatic avenues active.

Russia currently holds significant portions of Ukrainian territory, including full administrative control of Luhansk and most of Donetsk.

Ukrainian officials nonetheless insist that all regions recognized internationally as Ukrainian must remain under Kyiv’s sovereignty, expressing opposition to any form of territorial compromise.

Even with positions firmly held, observers note that the recent diplomatic activity suggests both sides acknowledge the importance of international mediation.

In particular, the involvement of global actors has helped sustain pressure for dialogue rather than prolonged military escalation.

International organizations continue to advocate for a negotiated outcome rooted in international law, regional security guarantees and humanitarian considerations.

The global community has consistently emphasized the importance of protecting civilians and maintaining the integrity of diplomatic platforms that encourage peaceful resolutions.

For Russia, the Donbas region holds political, historical and strategic significance, making it central to its stated goals.

However, the recent diplomatic tone suggests Moscow remains aware that long-term peace and regional stability will require the involvement of multiple nations and structured discussions.

Ukraine, meanwhile, continues to receive broad international support for its sovereignty as it defends the remaining parts of Donetsk still under its control.

Kyiv also maintains active diplomatic communication with partners to build consensus on a settlement that reinforces its territorial integrity.

As both sides navigate a complex geopolitical environment, global attention remains focused on preventing further military escalation.

Diplomats hope that sustained discussions, even amid disagreements, may eventually help bridge gaps and lead toward a roadmap addressing both security concerns and humanitarian priorities.

With heightened interest from global powers, including major states in Europe, Asia and North America, the coming months will likely see intensified diplomatic exchanges.

The hope among mediators is that continued dialogue will help reduce tensions and create meaningful steps toward a durable, internationally accepted agreement.

The meeting came amid growing concern in Kyiv and across Europe over elements of the framework, which many view as requiring significant concessions at a sensitive moment in the nearly four-year war.

The draft document, presented by Washington, calls for Ukraine to cede territory, accept certain military limitations and step back from aspirations of joining NATO.

These conditions have sparked debate among Ukrainian officials, frontline soldiers and international observers, who fear the plan may weaken the country’s long-term security posture.

Ukrainian leaders have publicly emphasized that any agreement must protect national sovereignty and avoid legitimizing territorial changes made through force.

Despite these concerns, Kyiv acknowledged the importance of continued dialogue and expressed cautious hope that discussions in Geneva could generate progress.

The meeting was convened quickly after the proposal drew criticism from European partners who said they were not consulted during its preparation.

Several leaders reiterated that any peace process must align with principles of international law and reflect the will of the Ukrainian people.

Ahead of the talks, top officials from the United States, including the secretary of state and a senior special envoy, arrived in Geneva to engage in detailed discussions.

They expressed optimism that further revisions could lead to a version of the plan better aligned with Ukraine’s security needs and the expectations of its allies.

Leaders across Europe have sought clarity on how the proposal was developed and what role allied governments would play in shaping final terms.

They emphasized that a unified approach will be essential to any future negotiation efforts involving Ukraine and Russia.

Germany signaled that reaching a workable framework may require additional time and coordination, noting the complexity of balancing political, military and diplomatic priorities.

Officials indicated that crafting an acceptable plan would depend on sustained engagement among all stakeholders.

Ukraine’s president welcomed ongoing diplomatic activity, noting that constructive discussions held prior to the Geneva gathering were a positive sign.

He emphasized that any final agreement would require direct engagement between national leaders to ensure mutual understanding.

Regional actors also weighed in, with Turkey announcing plans for discussions with Russia to evaluate the current situation and share relevant insights with partners.

The effort underscored the broader international interest in advancing diplomatic channels to reduce tension and prevent further escalation.

European leaders warned that Ukraine’s borders cannot be altered by force and that its defense capabilities must remain strong enough to deter future aggression.

They stressed that clarity on security guarantees will be essential for any sustainable peace arrangement.

The situation on the ground remains challenging, with Russian advances continuing in certain areas despite heavy losses reported by Ukrainian and Western officials.

These developments have intensified pressure on negotiators to produce a plan that addresses both immediate realities and long-term stability.

As discussions in Geneva unfold, officials from multiple countries have reiterated their commitment to seeking a diplomatic solution that protects Ukraine’s sovereignty.

They emphasized that no agreement will be finalized without direct approval from the presidents of both countries involved in the conflict.

The meeting marks a pivotal moment in ongoing diplomatic efforts, which aim to reconcile differing perspectives and produce a framework that could eventually guide formal negotiations.

While the road ahead remains uncertain, the continued engagement of international partners reflects a shared desire to chart a path toward lasting peace.

According to individuals familiar with the discussions, the plan envisions Ukraine surrendering certain territories and reducing parts of its military capabilities as part of a negotiated settlement.

The proposal, shared discreetly with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, outlines several concessions, including a smaller armed forces structure and limits on advanced weapons—measures Washington believes could help move the war toward resolution.

For Kyiv, the idea represents a significant shift at a time when Russian forces continue to make gains in eastern regions, putting Ukraine in a challenging position both militarily and politically.

The reported framework has not been publicly confirmed by U.S. officials, but American leaders have emphasized the need for realistic ideas from all sides to reach a durable peace.

Ukraine, which was not involved in drafting the terms, has been receiving indirect indications that Washington is exploring potential endgame scenarios, some of which have already been discussed with Russia, according to senior government figures.

Zelenskiy, who met with President Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara as part of a new diplomatic push, has called for strong and coordinated international engagement to support peace efforts.

He stated that U.S. leadership remains essential to ending the conflict, emphasizing that only Washington has the influence and resources required to steer negotiations effectively.

During his Ankara visit, Zelenskiy noted that Turkey had proposed alternative formats for future talks, highlighting Ankara’s continued role as a diplomatic facilitator.

Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s readiness to provide a platform for negotiation, reflecting its long-standing position as a mediator between Moscow and Kyiv.

Zelenskiy is scheduled to meet U.S. Army officials in Kyiv, a meeting expected to address both military support and emerging diplomatic considerations.

The renewed peace push has already had financial repercussions, triggering one of the largest increases in Ukrainian government bond prices in months as investors reacted to the possibility of progress.

Meanwhile, there have been no in-person negotiations between Russia and Ukraine since talks in Istanbul earlier this year, and Russian military operations have continued, including overnight strikes that left multiple casualties.

Ukraine’s leadership has so far avoided publicly acknowledging any forced concessions, maintaining that peace must not come at the cost of sovereignty or long-term security.

However, the political climate in Kyiv has become increasingly complex, with Zelenskiy confronting domestic challenges such as recent ministerial dismissals linked to corruption concerns.

International observers say the pressure on Kyiv reflects shifting global priorities, as the conflict approaches its fourth year and major powers explore a path toward stability.

U.S. officials insist that any final settlement must involve compromises from both sides, framing the current proposals as part of broader efforts to gather “realistic” options for ending the war.

Kyiv remains cautious about publicly embracing any externally crafted framework, particularly one that involves territorial changes or reductions in defense capacity.

Ukrainian officials have reiterated that peace cannot be imposed from the outside, and that any agreement must reflect Ukraine’s national interests and long-term security.

The coming weeks are expected to bring heightened diplomatic activity, with multiple nations signaling readiness to support or host negotiations.

The effectiveness of these efforts will depend on the willingness of both Kyiv and Moscow to engage, as well as the stance of global powers shaping the broader strategic environment.

At this stage, it remains unclear whether the U.S. proposal will gain traction, or whether Kyiv will be able to negotiate adjustments to avoid major territorial or military compromises.

For now, the situation highlights a delicate moment in the conflict, with Ukraine balancing battlefield realities, international expectations and domestic pressures as it navigates the next phase of the war.

In response to recent remarks by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy regarding potential targets, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that the Russian government remains focused on national security while prioritizing responsible engagement and conflict de-escalation. “Our approach continues to be guided by careful assessment, and we advocate for solutions that ensure long-term peace and stability in the region,” Peskov told state media.

Peskov noted that while Ukraine faces challenges on multiple fronts, including logistical and economic pressures, the focus for Russia remains on ensuring the safety of its citizens and supporting ongoing diplomatic channels. “It is crucial to prioritize constructive dialogue rather than confrontational statements. Every effort must be made to create conditions for meaningful negotiations and a sustainable resolution,” he said.

Highlighting the broader geopolitical landscape, the Kremlin reiterated its commitment to addressing security concerns responsibly, safeguarding both civilian infrastructure and strategic centers while pursuing avenues for international cooperation. The Russian government maintains that proactive communication, combined with adherence to international norms, can foster a safer environment for all parties involved.

Peskov also reflected on past incidents, including prior attempts to target key infrastructure, noting that Russia has strengthened protective measures to safeguard both governmental operations and public welfare. He reiterated that such steps are part of a broader commitment to security, resilience, and stability throughout the country.

Observers note that these statements underscore Russia’s approach of emphasizing security while encouraging dialogue. Analysts suggest that responsible engagement, coupled with measured diplomatic efforts, remains essential for mitigating risks and promoting regional stability.

As tensions continue to capture international attention, the Kremlin’s message is clear: while national security remains a priority, Russia advocates for solutions grounded in dialogue, cooperation, and long-term stability. This approach aligns with ongoing international calls for diplomacy as the path forward, reinforcing the importance of careful negotiation and strategic patience in addressing complex regional challenges.

By focusing on safety, resilience, and open communication, Russia aims to ensure that both citizens and neighboring regions can navigate this period with confidence and security, demonstrating a commitment to peace and measured international engagement.