KYIV, Dec 29 (Reuters) – Russia and Ukraine continue to hold sharply differing positions on territorial disputes that are hindering a potential peace agreement, even as progress was reported on security guarantees for Kyiv following discussions between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.
The impasse centers on the eastern Donetsk region, parts of which remain under Ukrainian control after nearly four years of war since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Moscow insists on Kyiv withdrawing forces from these areas, while Ukraine seeks a halt to fighting along current front lines. Washington has floated the idea of establishing a free economic zone in contested areas in exchange for a Ukrainian troop pullback.
Deep Mistrust Persists Amid Ongoing Attacks
Despite recent diplomatic efforts, including prisoner exchanges, trust between Moscow and Kyiv remains low. Russia intensified strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure as winter sets in, with major assaults leaving large sections of Kyiv without power on Monday amid sub-freezing temperatures.
Trump, speaking after a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, reiterated his belief that Putin genuinely wants to end the conflict. However, Zelenskiy cast doubt on Moscow’s intentions, stating: “In my opinion, [Putin’s] actions do not coincide with the seemingly peaceful rhetoric he uses in his dialogue with the U.S. president.”
Zelenskiy expressed openness to direct communication with Russia but said any meeting would require prior agreement on a peace framework involving Trump and European leaders. The Kremlin, through spokesman Dmitry Peskov, confirmed no such Putin-Zelenskiy call is planned.
Putin has maintained that Russia will pursue its objectives militarily if diplomatic resolution proves impossible, underscoring the need for Ukraine to accept Russian terms.
In Kyiv, residents interviewed by Reuters expressed deep skepticism about lasting peace prospects. “Putin doesn’t need territory; he doesn’t need Donbas — he wants to destroy the Ukrainians. He destroys us as a nation,” said Nadiia Yevtushenko, a 57-year-old local.
Talks are set to continue, with U.S. and Ukrainian teams expected to meet soon to address remaining issues. European leaders have also been involved in discussions, emphasizing the need for robust security guarantees for Ukraine.
