Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a January meeting with US President Donald Trump and European leaders following their December 28 discussions at Mar-a-Lago on a Ukraine peace plan. Trump claimed 95% of issues resolved, including Donbass status, with strong security guarantees, as Russia offered mixed responses after a deadly attack on Kyiv.
The bilateral talks on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence built on a US-proposed peace plan and followed a 75-minute "very productive" call between Trump and Putin. Trump described negotiations as entering their "final phase," with near-agreement on Donbass status—a key eastern region claimed by Russia—and 95% of issues addressed. He emphasized "strong security guarantees" for Ukraine involving Europe.
Zelensky called the conversation "very good" and thanked the US for progress. The leaders then joined a one-hour videoconference with European figures, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who welcomed "encouraging progress" and reaffirmed commitments.
Zelensky announced a January follow-up with Trump and Europeans to finalize details. French President Emmanuel Macron plans to host the Volunteer Coalition in Paris early next month to coordinate contributions.
Russia's response was mixed: the Kremlin confirmed a post-meeting call between Putin and Trump, and envoy Kirill Dmitriev praised Trump's efforts. However, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov labeled Europe the "main obstacle to peace."
The diplomacy follows a massive Russian attack on Kyiv on Saturday, killing two and leaving over a million households without power, underscoring persistent challenges.
