International peace talks to end the Russia-Ukraine war are ongoing. While Europe has yet to finalize its strategy, the US is taking the lead, seeking to hasten a ceasefire agreement. If successful, the conflict could be frozen and relevant documents signed as early as the beginning of next year. If these efforts fail, China may increase its involvement, entering separate negotiations with key European capitals.
The current negotiations, involving US, Ukrainian, and Western representatives, center on critical unresolved issues: Ukraine’s security guarantees, the status of temporarily occupied territories, and control over the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Ukrainian President Zelensky emphasizes the complexity of talks and indicates that continued financial and military support from Europe depends on how these discussions progress.
Possible outcomes include a new 'Minsk format,' freezing the conflict without returning territories, and deferring some questions for later resolution. Territorial matters, such as control over parts of Donetsk and other occupied regions, remain among the most sensitive for Ukrainian authorities.
For the Zaporizhzhia NPP, a likely model is joint international oversight, ensuring electricity supply both to Ukrainian-controlled and occupied areas. This would require infrastructure reconstruction and trust between all stakeholders.
The negotiation process also raises concerns about lasting guarantees and verification of compliance. Russia’s insistence that Western countries legally recognize annexed territories remains unacceptable for Ukraine, complicating progress.
The situation is fluid. Zelensky and European leaders are exploring new negotiation approaches, but the outcome will hinge largely on the US position and the willingness of all parties to make compromises.
