Where Peace Talks Stand: U.S. Plan Meets Firm Lines From Moscow and Kyiv

U.S. President Donald Trump has launched an intensive diplomatic push to end the war in Ukraine, sending envoys to both Moscow and Kyiv. The initiative — the most prominent U.S. effort since Russia’s full‑scale invasion nearly four years ago — has encountered sharply divergent demands from the two sides, leaving the proposal’s fate uncertain.

Russia's Position

President Vladimir Putin demands recognition of territories Russia controls, including all areas in four key regions seized since the invasion and Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014. Moscow also seeks additional concessions: Kyiv’s withdrawal from certain eastern areas not yet fully captured, a formal renunciation of NATO membership, limits on the size of Ukraine’s armed forces, official status for the Russian language, and recognition of the Russian Orthodox Church.

Russian officials say they will not cease offensive operations until a comprehensive settlement acceptable to Moscow is agreed.

Ukraine's Position

Kyiv says it is prepared to halt fighting along the existing front line but will not formally cede territory currently occupied by Russian forces. Ukraine rejects surrendering land Russia has not seized by force and refuses to abandon its aspiration to join NATO.

As part of any agreement, Ukraine insists on strong, concrete security guarantees from European partners and the United States to deter future aggression. Ukrainian leaders and their European allies have accused Russia of using negotiations to buy time for battlefield gains.

Diplomatic Moves And Political Pressure

Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and his son‑in‑law Jared Kushner met Putin in Moscow for a five‑hour discussion, then held several sessions with senior Ukrainian officials in Florida to try to reconcile differences. Critics say the draft plan favors Moscow; both capitals have publicly called parts of it unacceptable.

“Russia is, I believe, fine with it, but I’m not sure that Zelenskyy’s fine with it,” Trump said, adding: “His people love it, but he hasn’t read it.”

It remains unclear why Trump suggested President Zelenskyy had not read the proposal or whom he meant by “his people.” Ukrainian officials have made limited public comments and few negotiation details have been released. Putin praised the diplomatic effort but said some elements require further work to meet Moscow’s conditions.