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Zelensky optimistic after US envoy discussions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described a recent call with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner as productive, revealing "new ideas" to advance peace efforts in the Russia-Ukraine war. The nearly hour-long conversation on Thursday followed the unveiling of an updated 20-point peace plan agreed upon by US and Ukrainian officials in Florida.
Updated peace plan details
Zelensky outlined key elements of the revised proposal, which includes potential troop withdrawals from eastern Ukraine and the establishment of a demilitarized zone. The plan also incorporates security guarantees from the US, NATO, and European allies to respond collectively if Russia launches another invasion.
Addressing the contentious Donetsk region, Zelensky suggested creating a "free economic zone" while ensuring Ukrainian policing in any vacated areas. Russia currently occupies roughly 75% of Donetsk and nearly all of neighboring Luhansk, collectively known as Donbas.
Diplomatic tensions and pressures
Despite progress, Zelensky acknowledged remaining "sensitive issues" requiring further work. He confirmed that Ukraine's chief negotiator, Rustem Umerov, would continue discussions with the American team. The Ukrainian leader has faced significant pressure from former US President Donald Trump to cede Donbas to Russia, a demand Kyiv has consistently rejected.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly insisted Ukrainian forces must withdraw from Donbas or risk further military action. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Thursday that Moscow is analyzing the latest proposals brought back by Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev, with future communications dependent on Putin's decisions.
Ongoing military developments
While diplomacy advances, hostilities persist on the ground. The Ukrainian military reported striking the Novoshakhtinsk oil refinery in Russia's Rostov region, a critical fuel supplier for Russian operations in occupied eastern Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia claimed control of the Donetsk settlement of Sviato-Pokrovske, edging closer to the remaining Ukrainian-held cities of Sloviansk and Kramatorsk.
Earlier this week, Ukrainian forces withdrew from the embattled town of Siversk, further shifting the frontline dynamics in the region.
Next steps in negotiations
Zelensky emphasized the "active day" of diplomacy, noting that both sides understand how to implement the proposed measures. He also conveyed Christmas greetings to Trump and his family through the US envoys, highlighting the personal dimension of the discussions.
"Together with the American team, we understand how to put all of this in place," Zelensky stated, while acknowledging that challenges remain.
