A new interview on the 'Fabrika Novyn' YouTube channel focused on the progress of peace talks regarding Ukraine. Valeriy Klochok, head of the 'Vezha' public analytics center and host of 'Klochkota', noted that the negotiations have entered a difficult phase. President Zelensky acknowledged serious problems in the process, especially concerning territorial issues. Analysts report US pressure on Ukraine to reach quicker compromises over Donbas.
The main challenges remain the return of temporarily occupied territories and securing concrete security guarantees for Ukraine. According to Klochok, Western partners, including EU countries, have not offered real guarantees, limiting themselves to financial assistance to maintain Ukraine’s military capability. Western leaders describe Ukraine as the first line of EU defense, but there are no concrete offers of membership or direct military support.
Valeriy Klochok points out that talks may lead to a 'frozen conflict', which would not ensure a lasting peace. Donald Trump plays a separate role, actively advocating a truce and aiming to make peace in Ukraine part of his international policy. European countries are mobilizing for financial aid to Ukraine, aiming to deter Russian aggression and strengthen defense.
There is ongoing debate regarding loan terms, the freezing of Russian assets, and the financing of Ukraine’s armed forces over the coming years if active combat ends. The primary goal for all sides is to secure optimal positions, maintain defense capability, and avoid escalation of war by Russia into Europe.
