Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has announced his acceptance of a United States offer to host another round of negotiations next week, with the primary goal of ending Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine. According to Zelenskiy, these talks are scheduled for Tuesday or Wednesday, though it remains uncertain whether Russia will agree to participate in discussions held on US soil.
Territorial Disputes Take Center Stage
The upcoming dialogue is expected to zero in on the highly difficult issue of territory, which has been a key sticking point in previous negotiations. Zelenskiy revealed that the agenda includes a US proposal to establish a free economic zone as a buffer in the eastern Donbas region. However, both Ukraine and Russia view this option with skepticism, as neither side is keen on the idea.
In a phone interview from Kyiv, Zelenskiy stated, "None of the sides is keen on the idea of the free economic zone — neither the Russians, nor us." He declined to rule out the possibility entirely but emphasized that the parties have different perspectives and agreed to revisit the concept with clearer visions at the next meeting.
Recent Progress and Future Challenges
A previous round of talks earlier this month in Abu Dhabi, involving Russian, Ukrainian, and American officials, was described by Zelenskiy as constructive. He expressed optimism that the war could end within months if negotiations proceed in good faith. The conflict, now approaching its fifth year, has seen intensified efforts by envoys from President Donald Trump's administration to broker a peace deal.
Kyiv's preferred solution for Donbas involves maintaining troops along the current front line, while the Kremlin insists on controlling the entire region, including areas it has not captured militarily. Zelenskiy stressed that the US must clarify its position regarding governance of any buffer zone, asserting, "If it is our territory — and it is our territory — then the country whose territory it is should govern it."
Political Pressures and Referendum Plans
Zelenskiy has noted that the upcoming US midterm elections in November are creating pressure on the Trump administration to secure a peace agreement in Ukraine. He reported that Trump's team has proposed wrapping up all necessary negotiations by June, with the US aiming to sign all documents simultaneously.
Ukraine plans to approve any peace proposal through either a parliamentary vote or a national referendum. Zelenskiy has repeatedly stated his intention to call a referendum after hostilities cease, with David Arakhamiya, head of Zelenskiy's party in parliament, indicating that draft legislation for such a ballot could be ready by the end of February, potentially coinciding with a presidential vote.
Zelenskiy concluded, "For the time being we are also talking about a sequencing plan of all our actions, including signing of documents. I think that after our next meeting, there should be an understanding." The mechanics of a ceasefire and broader peace terms will be critical topics as these high-stakes discussions unfold.
