Ongoing peace negotiations between Ukraine, the US, and Russia remain complicated, with several fundamental unresolved issues. The main contradiction lies in the different conflict resolution approaches. Ukraine insists on a phased ceasefire, followed by elections and a referendum, whereas Russia demands first a framework agreement, after which a ceasefire could occur.
Western political support is vital for Ukraine’s survival. Europe has approved basic funding through 2027, while the US, according to experts, is reducing direct support and provides mainly intelligence information. Japan is significantly increasing military spending, opening up prospects for cooperation with Ukraine.
When negotiating with Trump, Ukraine faces a stance that rejects any temporary truce—Trump effectively supports the Russian approach: a peace framework agreement must come before any ceasefire.
Key disagreements remain over the status of annexed territories, Donbas, and Ukraine’s potential NATO membership. Russia demands recognition of new borders, while the US and Ukraine have not reached a compromise.
Despite readiness to form working groups and continue talks, the main sticking points remain the sequence of actions and political guarantees. Ukraine seeks to share responsibility with society through a referendum, while Russia insists on unilateral compliance by Ukraine, even before a preliminary agreement is signed.
