On Sunday, December 28, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago residence for in-depth discussions on a peace plan aimed at ending nearly four years of war between Russia and Ukraine. The two leaders held a joint press conference after several hours of meetings, highlighting significant progress while acknowledging persistent obstacles to a final agreement.
Trump stated that negotiations were “much closer, perhaps very close” to reaching a deal to end the war, while recognizing that difficult issues—particularly regarding the future of the Donbas region—remain unresolved. Zelensky confirmed that an agreement had been reached on security guarantees for Ukraine, supported by the United States and European allies, but that the fate of disputed territories still needed to be finalized.
According to multiple international agencies, approximately 90% of a 20-point peace plan framework has already been drafted, though the parties still need to agree on the precise terms of a ceasefire, demilitarization of contested areas, and long-term security guarantees. Trump indicated that negotiations could conclude “within a few weeks,” without setting a definitive deadline.
Prior to meeting Zelensky, Trump also held a “very productive” phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, considered a crucial step to advance the talks, even though Moscow continues to present conditions different from those of Kyiv.
A tense geopolitical backdrop: Taiwan
While attention focused on the Ukraine peace talks, China launched significant military exercises around Taiwan, heightening tensions in the Asia-Pacific region. Beijing conducted maneuvers described as “major,” including live-fire drills, which it frames as a show of strength against any declaration of independence by the island.
These exercises occur at a time when Washington is also seeking to reassure regional partners and strengthen alliances in Asia, raising concerns about a potential escalation of the Taiwan conflict.
