Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said on December 8 that peace negotiations had stalled over the Donbas region, as the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine hold incompatible views.
No Agreement on Donbas, Talks Stalled
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on December 8 that peace negotiations have hit a standstill, citing a lack of consensus on how to resolve the Donbas conflict.
He said the talks have stalled because no side—Ukraine, Russia, or the United States—has been able to agree on a unified position for the Donbas region.
Zelensky emphasized that the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine hold completely different views on the fate of eastern territories, making a joint solution difficult.
U.S. Peace Plan Requires Further Work
Zelensky noted that the U.S. peace proposal would need additional effort, particularly regarding control over the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
Demand for Security Guarantees
Negotiators are drafting a separate agreement on security guarantees, and Ukrainians want clear commitments from Western allies.
Zelensky posed a single question: if Russia were to restart hostilities, what would our partners do?
Trump Criticizes Zelensky Over Peace Plan Familiarity
Former President Donald Trump expressed disappointment, claiming Zelensky had not yet reviewed the U.S. peace plan.
Zelensky described the talks with the U.S. as constructive and said he would fly back to Washington if Trump were willing to meet.
Zelensky Engages with U.S., European Leaders
Earlier on Saturday, Zelensky had a phone conversation with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. He has scheduled meetings with the British prime minister, French president, German chancellor, EU Council President, and NATO secretary‑general. The day after, he will meet Italy’s prime minister in Rome.