Did Trump Claim Zelensky Needs Approval for Anything?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Trump's statement underscores the significant power dynamics in peace negotiations.
- Security guarantees for Ukraine will be a central topic of discussion.
- The proposed peace plan is nearing completion with major implications for the region.
- Involvement from Russia and Europe is crucial for the agreement.
- Upcoming talks could lead to pivotal decisions before the New Year.
Washington, Dec 27 (NationPress) In an exclusive interview with Politico, US President Donald Trump remarked that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "has nothing until I give my approval." This statement came just two days before their anticipated meeting in Florida, aimed at discussing a peace initiative to resolve the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, which has persisted for nearly four years.
The discussions are expected to revolve around a comprehensive 20-point peace framework that includes a suggested demilitarized zone, oversight of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear facility, territorial management of Donbas, and security assurances from the US post-conflict, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed on Friday his intention to address security assurances for Ukraine during his forthcoming talks with President Trump.
Zelensky informed reporters that their meeting is slated for Sunday in Florida, as per the Interfax-Ukraine news agency.
He indicated that topics such as territorial disputes and control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant will be pivotal in their discussions.
Zelensky also mentioned that the 20-point peace proposal is approximately 90% finalized, with several documents regarding security guarantees already prepared.
He emphasized that there are four key parties involved in the peace negotiations: Ukraine, the United States, Russia, and Europe, noting that the agreement cannot be formalized without the involvement of both Russia and Europe.
Earlier, Zelensky shared on Telegram that a high-level meeting with President Trump had been agreed upon, following a conversation with Rustem Umerov, who leads the Ukrainian delegation in talks with the US.
He asserted that significant decisions could be made before the New Year.
This statement follows a three-day round of negotiations among the US, Ukraine, and European representatives regarding the Ukraine crisis, which took place last week in Miami, Florida.