Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asserted that Russia has no interest in peace, pointing to a devastating weekend of missile and drone attacks on Kyiv as proof. He made the remarks ahead of a high-stakes meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida on Sunday, where the two leaders will discuss an updated American-brokered peace plan aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.
The meeting at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate comes at a critical juncture, with Zelensky seeking to advance a revised 20-point peace proposal that addresses security guarantees and territorial concessions. Earlier drafts were seen as overly favorable to Russia, but the new version, which is nearly complete according to Zelensky, aims to balance Ukrainian sovereignty with realistic diplomatic solutions. A key sticking point remains the eastern Donbas region, where Zelensky has floated the idea of a ‘free economic zone’ as a potential compromise, though Moscow controls large portions of the area.
Russia’s military actions over the weekend underscored the urgency of the talks. On Friday night, a prolonged barrage targeting Kyiv killed two people and injured 32 others, causing significant damage to energy infrastructure and leaving many homes without heating. Further strikes occurred on Saturday night, with Ukrainian officials reporting that nearly 500 drones and 40 missiles were directed at the capital. Zelensky interpreted the assault as ‘Russia’s answer to our peace efforts,’ stating unequivocally that President Vladimir Putin ‘doesn’t want peace.’
In response, Putin has maintained a hardline stance, asserting that Ukraine is not eager for a peaceful resolution and that Russia will achieve its objectives by force if necessary. The Kremlin has not commented on Zelensky’s latest proposals, but the Ukrainian president remains cautiously optimistic, describing the peace plan as ‘a foundational document on ending the war.’ He emphasized the need for ‘strong positions’ and international support to move forward.
Trump’s role is pivotal, as he has indicated that any agreement requires his approval. In a recent interview, he said Zelensky ‘doesn’t have anything until I approve it,’ but expressed confidence that the plan would be acceptable to both Ukraine and Russia. Trump also expects to speak with Putin soon, suggesting ongoing behind-the-scenes diplomacy. The U.S. president’s involvement has raised hopes for a breakthrough, though skepticism persists given the complex dynamics and previous failed negotiations.
European leaders have rallied behind Kyiv, with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz affirming ‘full support’ from NATO and the EU. Zelensky consulted with European counterparts ahead of the Florida meeting, highlighting the collective diplomatic effort. The attacks also prompted defensive measures in neighboring Poland, which activated air defenses but reported no airspace violations, illustrating the regional tensions.
As the Sunday meeting approaches, the focus is on whether the new peace plan can bridge the deep divides. Zelensky’s offer of a demilitarized zone or economic concessions in Donbas represents a significant shift, but Russia’s continued aggression casts doubt on its willingness to compromise. The outcome of the Trump-Zelensky talks could set the stage for broader negotiations or, if unsuccessful, lead to further escalation in a conflict that has already dragged on for years with no end in sight.
