On December 28, journalist Andriy Klochok provided live commentary and analysis on the high-level talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump, held at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Miami. The summit was preceded by a phone call from Trump to Russian President Vladimir Putin, officially reported by the Kremlin. Putin's aide, Yuri Ushakov, confirmed the call was initiated by the US and focused on resolving the war in Ukraine.
Before the closed-door meeting, Zelensky and Trump briefly faced the media. Zelensky emphasized that territorial issues would be a central theme. Ushakov noted Putin and Trump agreed to continue contact after the Zelensky-Trump summit. The Kremlin claimed both Putin and Zelensky wanted peace.
During the discussions, Zelensky highlighted Ukraine’s need for security guarantees. Trump stated he was ready to offer Ukraine a special partnership outside NATO, yet stressed that a security agreement would likely involve both sides and Europe. US participants in the negotiations included Marco Rubio, Jared Kushner, Steve Witkoff, and Susan Wiles.
Klochok answered audience questions regarding Ukrainian mobilization, future steps, the essence of any potential agreement, and Russian threats in case of a mere 'freeze' of the conflict. He concluded that robust defense and economic support would be essential for maintaining Ukrainian sovereignty.
The broadcast also captured public reactions to the talks, prospects for political change, corruption risks, and the role of European partners. After the in-person summit, US and Ukrainian leaders joined a video conference with EU leaders. The meeting was held behind closed doors to ensure confidential and substantive dialogue. Final decisions have yet to be disclosed.
Western media and Russian Telegram channels are so far reserved in their commentary, noting the complexity of negotiations and firm positions on all sides. Further developments will depend on Russia’s reaction, US decisions, and broader agreements on security and economic arrangements.
