Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to meet former US President Donald Trump in Florida on Sunday 28 December 2025, for critical discussions on a proposed new plan to end the war in Ukraine.
The Mar-a-Lago Meeting and a Plan '90% Ready'
The high-stakes talks at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort follow preparatory conversations between Kyiv and Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, and son-in-law, Jared Kushner. Zelenskyy has characterised these as a "good conversation" leading to the face-to-face with Trump himself.
The Ukrainian leader has promoted a 20-point peace framework that he says is "90% ready" and involves certain compromises. However, Trump has publicly tempered expectations, stating ahead of the visit, "He doesn't have anything until I approve it."
Russian Reluctance: The Evergreen Obstacle
Despite the momentum from Kyiv, a significant barrier remains: Moscow's position. Analysis indicates that Russian President Vladimir Putin has barely shifted from his original demands on Ukraine, with little expectation of a change this weekend.
Russian officials have offered only measured and minimal optimistic noises. Experts suggest Putin, benefiting from a reshaped US-Russia dynamic and divisions between the US and European allies, sees an opportunity to pursue territorial goals. A long-term framework that curtails this ambition is unlikely to be welcomed in Moscow.
A Defining Test for Trump's Diplomacy
This persistent Russian reluctance presents a direct challenge to Donald Trump. It will test the strength of his diplomacy, his approach to a leader he has often praised, and ultimately, where his loyalties lie in the conflict.
This is not the first such test; earlier, a US-floated 28-point plan was rejected by Zelenskyy and coalition allies as resembling a "Russian wish list." The current 20-point version from Kyiv aims to find a middle ground, but its success hinges on influencing a Kremlin that currently sees more advantage in the status quo.
The outcome of the Florida meeting and the subsequent international response could prove pivotal for the future direction of the war, now entering another year.
