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US offers NATO-like security guarantees to Ukraine
The United States has proposed robust security assurances to Ukraine, modeled after NATO's Article 5 collective defense clause, as part of efforts to secure a ceasefire in the ongoing war with Russia. The offer, described by US officials as the "platinum standard," aims to ensure Russia respects any truce and prevents future aggression. However, the proposal comes with a warning: it "would not be on the table forever."
Zelensky seeks clarity before concessions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the Berlin talks "productive" but stressed that Kyiv needs a "clear understanding of security guarantees" before addressing other contentious issues. He indicated for the first time that Ukraine might abandon its NATO aspirations as a "compromise" in exchange for ironclad assurances. Despite progress on security, Zelensky acknowledged differing positions with the US on resolving the conflict, particularly regarding the Donbas region.
Donbas remains a major obstacle
The US has suggested establishing an "economic-free zone" in the contested Donbas area, but this would require Ukraine to withdraw from territories it still controls-an option Kyiv staunchly opposes. Russia, which occupies most of the region, demands full control, further complicating negotiations. Zelensky noted that Washington and Kyiv "so far have different positions" on the matter, while US officials stated that final sovereignty issues would need to be resolved by the parties involved.
"It seems to me that [the US and Ukraine] so far have different positions, to be honest."
Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukrainian President
International reactions and next steps
US President Donald Trump described recent discussions with Zelensky and European leaders as a "very good talk," suggesting progress toward a peace deal. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz echoed this optimism, calling the prospect of a ceasefire "conceivable" for the first time. Further talks involving European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other EU leaders are scheduled to continue Monday evening.
The discussions in Berlin center on Ukraine's 20-point peace plan, submitted last week to counter an earlier US proposal perceived as favoring Russia. While details remain undisclosed, Zelensky framed the plan as a "foundation" for reconstruction and security guarantees. Any agreement reached will still need Moscow's approval, though Zelensky noted that the US delegation has been conveying Russia's stance during negotiations.
War's toll on Ukraine intensifies
The talks coincide with a critical phase for Ukraine, which faces its fourth winter of war amid relentless Russian strikes on energy infrastructure. Over the weekend, more than a million households lost power following a barrage of attacks. Zelensky reported on Monday that no functioning power station had been spared by Russian forces.
EU debates use of frozen Russian assets
Later this week, EU countries will vote on a proposal to redirect €90 billion (£78.6 billion) in frozen Russian assets, held in a Belgium-based institution, to support Ukraine's economy. While EU governments agreed Friday to immobilize the assets indefinitely, legal concerns persist. Belgium and Italy have pushed for alternative solutions, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas acknowledging the discussions are "increasingly difficult."
