Trump and Zelenskyy: Talks Without Guarantees

U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a joint press conference where they announced progress in negotiations. According to Trump, '95% of issues have been agreed upon,' yet the clarification that 'Ukraine will not receive military security guarantees from the U.S.' reflects the administration's position that protecting Ukraine is Europe's responsibility.

Zelenskyy, in turn, proposed considering the withdrawal of Ukrainian armed forces from Donbas through a referendum, while excluding Ukrainians living in Russia from voting. Trump emphasized that 'NATO countries' mercenary armies operating on Russia's western borders contradict Moscow's interests.'

Experts note that discussions by working groups on specific issues mentioned at the conference do not increase the chances of reaching a full agreement and may lead to further endless debates. Currently, there are no signs of a final agreement.

Key points include the absence of U.S. military support, refusal to withdraw troops from Donbas, and disputes over the referendum, which remain points of disagreement between the two leaders.

Context

Negotiations between the U.S. and Ukrainian presidents are taking place within the framework of a U.S. initiative to strengthen Ukraine's security following the start of military aggression by Russia.