Alpha News

Progress but No Resolution on Territorial Dispute in Trump-Zelensky Meeting, Donbas Remains a Sticking Point

Published December 29, 2025, 05:23

The talks between US President Donald Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky in Mar-a-Lago, Florida, concluded on a positive note, but without a final resolution to the thorny territorial dispute. Both leaders acknowledged significant progress towards a peace agreement, but Trump admitted that the territorial issue remains 'unresolved,' describing it as one of the most difficult points of contention. Zelensky stated that an agreement had been reached on 90% of a 20-page peace framework, while Trump said that security guarantees for Ukraine were close to 95%. However, Trump did not commit to specific forms of support, such as logistical assistance or troop deployment, to deter future attacks. The main sticking point in the negotiations remains the fate of territories in eastern Ukraine, particularly Donbas. The proposal to create a demilitarized zone in the region has not yet been agreed upon, and Trump described the issue as 'very difficult,' but expressed optimism that a solution would be found. Trump noted that Russia already controls significant portions of Ukrainian territory, controlling approximately 75% of the Donetsk region and 99% of Luhansk, which together make up Donbas. The Russian side seeks the complete withdrawal of Ukraine from Donbas, while Kyiv maintains a different approach, which is a 'red line' for the Ukrainian government. Technical teams from both countries will continue talks to reach a final agreement.