Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the country is very close to signing a peace agreement. According to The New York Times, the new peace plan submitted by Kyiv to the United States does not include a ban on Ukraine joining NATO or withdrawal from Donbas.
European leaders, notably the German Chancellor, are strengthening support for Ukraine, while military presence on Poland's borders is being increased to guard against potential threats from Russia and Belarus. Hungarian President Orban is critical of the freezing of Russian assets in favor of Ukraine, as anti-Orban protests continue in Hungary amid political and social tensions.
Belarus, amid negotiations with the West, is reducing its military activities towards Lithuania and is discussing the possible repatriation of Russian collaborators. Russia is demanding the return of political commentators, journalists, and religious figures with ties to its influence in Ukraine.
Ukraine continues to receive support from the West: Russian assets are being frozen, sanctions tightened, and the prospect of Euro-integration discussed. However, the conflict remains risky and negotiations proceed with rising tensions across Europe.
Zelensky emphasizes the need for Ukrainian unity and support for the Armed Forces during this critical period. The possibility of achieving peace by Christmas is at its highest since the outbreak of the war, but guarantees remain uncertain. The Western community is closely monitoring developments and actively influencing the negotiation process.
