On December 13, peace talks on Ukraine remain a central topic. President Zelensky is scheduled to meet with EU representatives, notably Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz, while US advisors Steve Witkoff and Kushner may travel to Europe to promote a peace initiative. Major focus is on legal security guarantees for Ukraine similar to NATO’s Article 5, which the Trump administration is reportedly willing to consider.
The talks are expected in Berlin with participation from major EU and NATO countries. The Trump administration asserts its readiness to discuss legal security guarantees, as advocated by Zelensky. The creation of a demilitarized economic zone in Donbas is also on the negotiation table.
The US is sending Witkoff, considered a flexible negotiator by experts due to his softer stance towards the Kremlin. Peace talks continue across various venues with involvement from France, the UK, and EU representatives.
European leaders remain cautious about possible territorial concessions and emphasize the need for robust security guarantees. Trump highlights the importance of quickly achieving results, distinguishing between a “frozen” conflict and lasting peace, which would require final agreements.
Meanwhile, the US is willing to discuss the use of frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s recovery. EU countries like Belgium, Bulgaria, and Italy demand independent guarantees regarding any reparations mechanism in favor of Kyiv.
Amid negotiations, Russia continues its attacks in southern Ukraine, heavily impacting Odesa, Kherson, and Mykolaiv regions. The infrastructure has suffered, causing major disruptions in water and heating supplies.
There is ongoing debate regarding the structure of Ukraine’s international legions and the role of advisor Umerov, who has held security- and corruption-focused meetings with the FBI and US officials.
In summary, the diplomatic process remains complex and multiparty. Ukraine and its partners seek compromise on security guarantees, peace terms, economic support, and countering Russian aggression.
