As the world watches for any sign of resolution in the war between Russia and Ukraine, the latest round of so-called peace talks has stirred up even more controversy—especially after a surprising meeting between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff.
While the two smiled for the cameras and exchanged pleasantries, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made it clear: Ukraine isn’t backing down on Crimea.
Zelensky Holds the Line on Crimea Despite Global Pressure
In no uncertain terms, Zelensky stood firm against any suggestion that Ukraine would hand over Crimea to Russia.
The peninsula, which was annexed by Moscow back in 2014, remains a critical piece of Ukrainian territory in Zelensky’s eyes.
“Our position hasn’t changed,” he said.
“The Ukrainian constitution clearly states all temporarily occupied territories belong to Ukraine.”
Zelensky’s comments came amid growing concern that former President Donald Trump might pressure Ukraine into accepting territorial losses for the sake of peace—a move that would include recognizing Russia’s claim over Crimea.
Trump has repeatedly stated, “Crimea will stay with Russia,” suggesting he sees it as a done deal.
Putin and Trump’s Envoy Meet Amid Explosions and Tensions
Just hours before Putin and Witkoff met, a deadly car bomb exploded in Moscow, killing Russian General Yaroslav Moskalik.
The Kremlin quickly pointed the finger at Ukraine’s security services, though no group has claimed responsibility so far.
Despite the chaos, the meeting went ahead, with Russian state media releasing footage of the two men chatting in English before sitting down to discuss a potential peace plan.
It’s notable that Putin, who reportedly speaks fluent English, rarely uses the language publicly—making this encounter even more symbolic.
Peace Talks Continue, but Trump Threatens to Walk
While Trump has openly criticized Putin—especially after a drone strike on Kyiv killed at least 12 people—he’s also been trying to cast himself as the broker of peace.
“Vladimir, STOP!” he posted online, urging the Russian leader to move forward with a peace agreement.
Still, Trump made it clear he expects results soon. “If there’s no progress, I won’t be happy,” he warned.
“Things will happen.” He hinted that the next few days would be crucial, saying, “I think we’re getting very close” to a deal.
Ukraine Fears Being Strong-Armed into Giving Up Land
Behind the scenes, however, there’s growing concern that the U.S. is preparing to pressure Ukraine into giving up more than just Crimea.
Leaked documents show that Trump’s team—specifically Witkoff—has been pushing a plan that would essentially freeze the conflict where it currently stands.
That includes not only recognizing Russia’s hold over Crimea but also acknowledging its control over parts of eastern and southern Ukraine.
On top of that, the proposal reportedly includes lifting the sanctions placed on Russia since the war began.
Trump Defends Russia’s Claim to Crimea in Interview
In an interview with TIME magazine, Trump doubled down on his stance regarding Crimea.
“Zelensky understands that,” he said, arguing that the region has been under Russian influence for decades.
“They’ve had their submarines there long before this.
The people speak mostly Russian… This wasn’t something I gave; this was Obama’s.”
It’s a narrative that has sparked outrage in Kyiv and among European allies who continue to support Ukraine’s right to reclaim its full territory.
Zelensky Might Miss Pope’s Funeral Over Security Concerns
Meanwhile, President Zelensky has suggested he might not attend Pope Francis’s funeral on Saturday due to ongoing security risks, especially in light of the latest drone attack on Kyiv.
This would have been his first face-to-face encounter with Trump since their dramatic and fiery exchange in Washington last year.
Global Allies Divided on How to End the War
As diplomacy drags on, it’s becoming clear that the U.S. and Europe aren’t entirely on the same page when it comes to ending the war.
European leaders remain committed to supporting Ukraine’s full sovereignty, while the leaked U.S. proposals indicate a willingness to compromise on key territorial issues.
That growing rift raises the question: Will peace come at the cost of Ukraine’s borders—or can a deal be struck that doesn’t hand over hard-won land to the Kremlin?