Washington, Dec 29 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump stated that both Russia and Ukraine are eager for the ongoing conflict to conclude, as talks aimed at a peace settlement are approaching their final stages following his discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Mar-a-Lago in Florida.

“Both Russia and the U.S. desire an end to this conflict,” Trump remarked to journalists after the negotiations. “It’s crucial to halt the loss of lives.”

Trump indicated that his discussions with Zelensky encompassed almost all key matters and were part of a comprehensive diplomatic initiative, which also involved recent dialogues with Russian President Vladimir Putin and European leaders.

“We delved into nearly every topic,” Trump noted. “Today, we engaged in thorough discussions.”

He recounted a phone conversation with Putin earlier in the day that extended beyond two hours, mentioning that the Russian leader showed willingness to find a resolution to the conflict. “He is keen to see a resolution,” Trump stated, expressing his belief that Putin is earnest about ending the war.

Zelensky remarked that the discussions at Mar-a-Lago were the culmination of months of negotiations held in various locations, including Geneva, Miami, and Berlin. “Our teams have been working tirelessly for over a month,” he emphasized.

The conversation primarily focused on security guarantees, which Zelensky identified as vital for achieving enduring peace. “We concurred that security guarantees are pivotal in securing lasting peace,” he noted.

Trump highlighted that Europe would play a significant role in providing these guarantees, with backing from the U.S. “We aim to collaborate with Europe,” he affirmed. “They are right there geographically.”

When questioned about unresolved matters, Trump pointed to territorial disputes. “Some of that land has been taken,” he remarked. “Some of that land may be negotiable.”

Zelensky maintained that Ukraine’s stance on territory remains firm. “We stand by the territory we control,” he said, emphasizing that any significant decision would require democratic endorsement. “If the proposed plan is challenging for our society, it must ultimately be decided by them.”

Trump indicated that parliamentary approval or a referendum may be necessary. “It’s probable that their plan will need approval through parliament or a public referendum,” he stated.

The leaders also addressed the status of Ukraine’s nuclear power facilities. Trump noted that the largest nuclear plant in the vicinity could be operational soon, and Russia has refrained from targeting it. “He hasn’t struck it with missiles,” Trump remarked regarding Putin. “That’s a considerable development.”

Trump added that Russia would play a role in Ukraine's reconstruction. “Russia will assist,” he said. “They desire Ukraine to thrive.”

When asked about a potential ceasefire, Trump indicated that none had been established yet. “Not a ceasefire yet,” he stated. “This is one of the issues we are currently addressing.”

Zelensky expressed that logistical challenges, including the participation of refugees, would complicate any referendum process. “It’s not straightforward,” he cautioned, highlighting the necessity of establishing voting frameworks across Europe.

Trump conveyed his cautious optimism. “If things proceed exceptionally well, perhaps within a few weeks,” he speculated about a possible agreement. “If it does not go well, it won't materialize.”

He warned that failure would lead to continued violence. “They continue to fight and die,” Trump stated. “That’s not acceptable.”

As the meeting concluded, Trump thanked reporters and made a light-hearted comment about lunch at Mar-a-Lago. “I trust you enjoyed it,” he said, eliciting a smile from Zelensky.

The conflict has resulted in the loss of tens of thousands of lives and has dramatically altered global geopolitics, involving NATO, Russia, and significant regional players. The United States has been a key diplomatic and military participant throughout the conflict.

Previous attempts to broker peace have often stalled, making these recent discussions a vital test of whether sustained diplomatic efforts can finally bring an end to Europe’s most destructive conflict in decades.