Post by : Badri Ariffin

Donald Trump, the former US President, stated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky lacks the authority to propose a peace deal to resolve the ongoing conflict with Russia without the United States' endorsement, emphasizing America's pivotal role in the discussions.

In an interview released by Politico on Friday, Trump remarked that Zelensky “doesn’t have anything until I give my approval,” underscoring the influence his administration aims to exert in facilitating peace talks.

These comments emerge just prior to a scheduled meeting between Trump and Zelensky in Florida on Sunday, where Trump expressed optimism about the discussions, also mentioning plans to contact Russian President Vladimir Putin soon for concurrent diplomatic efforts.

Crucial Topics for Discussion

During their meeting, Zelensky is anticipated to confront delicate territorial issues, such as the status of the eastern regions embroiled in conflict and the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear facility. These remain significant barriers to achieving a resolution nearly four years after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The conversations are timely as a US-supported, 20-point peace proposal and an accompanying security assurances package are nearing finalization. Zelensky indicated that “many decisions may be reached before the New Year,” reflecting Kyiv's hopes for renewed momentum toward a ceasefire.

Reports reveal that Zelensky is ready to directly address the issues surrounding the Donbas region and the Zaporizhzhia plant with Trump, alongside other unresolved topics related to the conflict.

Proposal for a Referendum and Ceasefire Request

In separate comments noted by Axios, Zelensky mentioned he would consider submitting the US-led peace framework to a national referendum, contingent upon Russia agreeing to a 60-day ceasefire. He argued that such a halt in combat would be crucial for Ukraine to organize and conduct a credible public vote on any agreement.

Meanwhile, Russia continues to demand Ukraine’s withdrawal from portions of the Donetsk region that its troops have not entirely overtaken. Moscow insists on complete control over the Donbas area, which includes Donetsk and Luhansk, while Kyiv insists that any ceasefire should maintain current positions.

As a potential compromise, the United States has suggested establishing a free economic zone if Ukraine relinquishes certain disputed territories, although specifics on the operational details remain unclear.

With Trump aiming to position Washington as the decisive factor in any agreement, the forthcoming meeting with Zelensky will be closely monitored to ascertain if a breakthrough is imminent or if the protracted conflict is poised to extend into another year.

#Global News #Donald Trump