Volodymyr Zelensky admits Kyiv and Washington remain divided over Donbas peace plan during talks on Ukraine’s eastern regions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has openly acknowledged that Kyiv and Washington are still at odds over key aspects of the US peace plan. The disagreements center on security guarantees for Ukraine and control of what Zelensky referred to as the “eastern regions,” including the Donetsk and Luhansk areas collectively known as Donbas.

No Common Ground Yet on Territorial Status

“There is the vision of the United States, of Russia, and of Ukraine — and we do not have a common view on Donbas,” Zelensky told reporters. Despite ongoing discussions, no agreement has been reached on the status of these contested regions. Zelensky stressed that Kyiv is committed to securing a separate agreement on safety assurances with its Western partners, especially the United States.

The Big Question on Security Guarantees

Zelensky highlighted a question weighing heavily on Ukraine and its people: if Russia launches another attack, what actions will Kyiv’s allies take in response? The president underscored the need for clarity, emphasizing that security guarantees remain a top priority in any potential peace arrangement.

Trump Voices Disappointment

The Ukrainian leader’s comments came shortly after former US President Donald Trump expressed disappointment that Zelensky had not yet reviewed the full details of Washington’s peace proposal.

This followed a two-hour call on December 6 involving US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, aimed at pushing both sides toward possible compromises.

Efforts to Bridge the Divide

According to Axios, the US envoys gathered positions from both Kyiv and Moscow, encouraging each side to make concessions.

However, the talks have so far struggled to find common ground, particularly on the territorial issues that form the crux of the conflict.

Territorial Disputes Remain the Main Obstacle

Sources close to the negotiations say that the territorial question is the hardest barrier to a settlement.

Russia insists that Ukraine withdraw its forces from areas of Donbas under Kyiv’s control, while Washington seeks alternative solutions to break the stalemate.

With visions for the region sharply divided, meaningful progress on the peace plan remains elusive.

The Path Forward

As discussions continue, both Kyiv and Washington must navigate a complex web of competing interests and unresolved questions While the conversation remains ongoing, Zelensky’s candid remarks underline the difficulties ahead in finding a resolution acceptable to all parties.