Trump Claims Zelensky Needs US Nod on Ukraine Peace Deal

In a recent statement, US President Donald Trump emphasized that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky cannot present a peace plan to conclude the conflict with Russia without prior approval from Washington, reiterating the United States' essential involvement in the negotiating process.

During an interview released by Politico on Friday, Trump remarked that Zelensky “doesn't have anything until I approve it,” highlighting the influence his administration seeks to wield as it pushes for an end to the war.

Trump's comments come just days before a scheduled meeting with Zelensky in Florida this Sunday. He expressed optimism that the discussions could yield positive results and mentioned plans to engage with Russian President Vladimir Putin soon, suggesting a dual diplomatic effort.

Topics of Discussion

Zelensky is expected to address critical territorial issues at the upcoming Florida meeting, particularly concerning the eastern regions in conflict and the status of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear facility. These challenges continue to pose significant hurdles nearly four years into Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The negotiations proceed alongside a US-backed 20-point peace plan and an accompanying security guarantee proposal that are nearing finalization. Zelensky has indicated optimism, stating that “a lot can be decided before the New Year,” highlighting Kyiv's hopes for tangible progress toward a ceasefire.

Reports indicate that Zelensky is ready to discuss the Donbas region and the Zaporizhzhia plant directly with Trump, along with other unresolved issues regarding the conflict.

Proposed Referendum and Ceasefire

In comments reported by Axios, Zelensky suggested he would consider holding a national referendum on the US-led peace proposal, contingent on Russia agreeing to a 60-day ceasefire. He argues that such a pause in hostilities is critical for Ukraine to prepare and conduct a legitimate public vote on the agreement.

However, Russia continues to insist on Ukraine's withdrawal from various parts of the Donetsk region still under dispute. Moscow seeks full control over the Donbas, which comprises Donetsk and Luhansk, whereas Kyiv maintains that any ceasefire should freeze lines along the existing front.

In a potential compromise, the United States has floated the idea of establishing a free economic zone if Ukraine concedes certain contested territories, although specific operational details remain unclear.

As Trump positions the US as the decisive broker in any potential agreement, the forthcoming meeting with Zelensky is set to draw significant attention, as observers look for indications of possible breakthroughs or the likelihood of the conflict extending further into 2024.