Today at 8:00 p.m. Kyiv time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence. The meeting takes place amid a negotiation process where Ukraine is being asked to give up some territories, recognize Russian as a second state language, and meet various other demands, while Russia faces minimal requirements. Zelensky has stated the talks will primarily focus on security guarantees for Ukraine and economic recovery after the war.
A key issue is identifying funding sources for rebuilding Ukraine, as there is concern that the United States seeks to benefit financially from the recovery process. Security guarantees remain unclear as NATO membership is unlikely, though alternative mechanisms are suggested that do not ensure automatic military support. However, the central issue in the talks is expected to be territorial: Russia demands Ukraine withdraw its troops from Donetsk region, and the U.S. is pressuring Ukraine to consider alternatives, including the proposal of a free economic zone, which does not address sovereignty or territorial integrity.
Zelensky faces considerable diplomatic pressure but insists he will not compromise on Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Any concessions could result in significant social and political upheaval in Ukraine, including protests or even uprisings.
Meanwhile, Russia is attempting to influence talks through unofficial channels and publicly demonstrates its military power with combined airstrikes on Kyiv. During a meeting with generals, Vladimir Putin emphasized that Russia would continue fighting if Ukraine does not comply with the demands, including withdrawal from Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions.
The situation at the front remains difficult. Russian forces claim control over towns like Myrnohrad, Novopavlivka, and Huliaipole, though these claims are unsubstantiated. Ukrainian units are actively defending, supported by civil society, and continue to fight for territorial control.
The author calls for ongoing support of the Ukrainian army, stating that regardless of negotiations, a strong, reformed army remains the key security guarantee for Ukraine’s future.
